IN Peters Township by IN Community Magazines

APRIL/MAY 2011

eters Township COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

Drive to Stay Alive Peters Township High School Prom Fashions

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Peters Township Newsletter Inside!

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Contents Peters Township Magazine | April/May 2011 |

SPRING 2011

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

Healthy Family, Happy Family

Publisher’s Message

What’s Inside page 2

A Clean Sweep Make fire safety a focus of your spring clean-up projects

41 page 3

From Gut-Wrenching Pain to Hope for the Future Stomachaches: When to Worry

Keeping yourself and your family healthy can seem like a full-time job.

page 4

Good Night, Sleep Tight! Are You Allergic to Your Bed?

With UPMC HealthTrak, you now have a convenient way to manage your health anytime and anywhere.

page 5

UPMC HealthTrak Lets You Manage Your Health Care Online

page 6

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Could It Happen to You?

page 7

Urology 101

UPMC Mercy Emergency Department Project Advances

COMMUNITY INTEREST

| | | | | | |

FEATURES

| | | | |

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

| | | | | | |

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

| | | | | |

ON THE COVER

Peters Township Administrative and Department Heads Paul Lauer, Peter Overcashier, Pier Lee, Mark Zemaitis, Ed Zuk, Michele Harmel, Chief Harry Fruecht, Dan Coyle and Mike Silvestri.

Welcome to the spring issue of Peters Township Magazine. I hope you all had a wonderful holiday filled with family, friends, and fun. Typically, I use this space to talk about your community or features in the magazine that spotlight the people in your community who are doing wonderful things. Well, this time I want to update you regarding our newest feature for 2011—our new website. Without venturing too far into the realm of shameless self-promotion, I want to emphasize that this website is something for you, our readers. How so? Well, you can have input and help shape the website just like your ideas help shape your magazine. Now you have a place to list all of the nonprofit community organizations that are active in the community. We are also developing pages where we list the local houses of worship. In addition, we now offer every magazine in a fully downloadable PDF format, rather than the outdated flipbook format we used to have. This will allow you to send the magazine, or links to it, to friends and family both near and far. We tied our website into Facebook as well, not to get the biggest list of “friends” we could get but to have a place to keep our readers abreast of all the news we get between issues. It also gives us a place to upload all the photos from community events that we don’t have room for in the magazine. As with all things, there’s always room for improvement, but we always have open ears. If you have comments about our new website or want to see your organization listed, e-mail mark@incommunitymagazines.com with your link or feedback. There’s no charge for listing your church, synagogue, or scout troop’s link, so send your links in today! And if you happen to be on Facebook and like what you see in the magazine, don’t hesitate to click that “Like” button. It’s always nice to be liked! I hope you have a wonderful spring!

eters Township APRIL/MAY 2011 IN Peters Township is a non-partisan community publication dedicated to representing, encouraging and promoting the Peters Township area and its comprising municipalities by focusing on the talents and gifts of the people who live and work here. Our goal is to provide readers with the most informative and professional regional publication in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. PUBLISHER

Wayne Dollard AS S I STA N T TO T H E P U B L I S H E R

Mark Berton mark@incommunitymagazines.com M A N AG I N G E D I TO R

Marybeth Jeffries marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com O F F I C E M A N AG E R

Leo Vighetti leo@incommunitymagazines.com E D I TO R I A L AS S I STA N T

Jamie Ward j.ward@incommunitymagazines.com WRITERS

Mark Berton Kelli McElhinny

Pamela Palongue

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Wayne Dollard Publisher

Cassie Brkich Anna Buzzelli Susie Doak Pati Ingold

Jan McEvoy Joe Milne Tamara Tylenda Tracey Wasilco

P H OTO G R A P H E R S

When I think about spring, I can’t help but think about light. The days get “lighter,” and the sun stays with us a little longer each day. When we have a great idea, a light bulb goes off in our minds. At Peters Township Magazine, we try to spotlight our communities. What are you doing to be a “light” in the community? If you or an organization that you volunteer or work for would like to be spotlighted, will you let me know? So many good deeds are left unsung! If you have a family member who is in the armed forces, or if your church group, Mom or Dad are providing a service to someone in need, we want to know! Please e-mail your ideas and photos to me at marybeth@incommunitymagazines.com. I had the opportunity to speak with Chief Harry Fruecht from the Peters Township Police Department a few weeks ago. He is busy getting ready for the 2nd Annual Drug Take Back Initiative happening in a few weeks. If you have any old or unused prescription drugs, the police department is setting up collection points around Peters and at their offices. For the safety of this community, please pass the word to your friends and neighbors. Your help in spreading the word about this important program is so easy, but can produce long lasting results! You can read more about the locations, date and times of the event on page 63. As we look forward to warmer and brighter days ahead, I hope you will enjoy this edition of Peters Township Magazine!

Marybeth Jeffries Managing Editor "No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another." — Charles Dickens 4 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

Peters Township

Garyyonphotography.com A DV E RT I S I N G S A L E S

Nicholas Buzzell Brian Daley Gina D’Alicandro Tina Dollard Rose Estes Jason Huffman Jessie Jones Connie McDaniel Brian McKee

David Mitchell Tamara Myers Gabriel Negri Robert Ojeda Annette Petrone Vincent Sabatini Michael Silvert RJ Vighetti

This magazine is carrier route mailed to all district households and businesses. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Copyright 2011. CORRESPONDENCE All inquiries, comments and press releases should be directed to: IN Community Magazines Attn: Editorial 603 East McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 Ph: 724.942.0940 Fax: 724.942.0968

Summer content deadline: 5/3/11 www.incommunitymagazines.com

Please recycle this magazine when you are through enjoying it.

Peters Townshipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kitchen & Bath Design Center

In this eeconomy, conomy, an iinvestment nvestment in yyour our home is one of the sa safest fest iinvestments nvestments yyou ou ccan an ma make. ke. W Whether hether yyou ou plan ttoo lilive ve in your your home long tterm erm or aare re planning ttoo sell yyour our home within thee next next 5 yyears, ears, a new kkitchen itchen and

DDesign esign & Planning SServicFT ervicFT t " .F .FSJMMat FSJMMat SSignature ignature Sh ShowrPPN owrPPN t CConsultations onsultatioons bbyy appoi appointment ntment 412-276-5650

CCollier ollier Town Town Square, Square, 1597 Washington Washington Pike, Pike, Bridgeville, Bridgeville, P" P" t email: email: premierkitchenandbath@verizon.net premierkitchenandbath@verizon.ne net www.premierhomedesigncenter.com www.premierhomedesigncenter.com

Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 5

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Fathers got the chance to treat their daughters like princesses at the Annual Princess Ball on Friday, February 4 at the Peters Township Rec. Center. Fathers and daughters celebrated Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day with some dinner and dancing at the ball. For all of the little princesses, wearing their fanciest dresses was also a big part of all the fun.

Peyton Erker and her dad Scott

Lauren Moore and her dad Bill

Tim Saxon and his daughter Mikayla, Dave Jaap and his daughter Ashlyn

Hannah, Sarah and Dave Welker Lexi Pirosko, Alexandrea Kartsonas and Alea Herndon

Tom, Emma and Brittan Oglesby

6 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

Peters Township

Photos by Debbie Mountain Maria Young, Ava Wible and Madyson Glesky

Julia Nypaver, Alaina Nypaver, Gemma Walker and Brooke Schavolt

Emma Beagle and her dad Dan

Haley Tom, Katie Schreiber, Cassidy Tom and Gabby Tom

Derek Bayer and daughter Mikayla John Lobello and daughter Jenny

Josie Brenckle, Thomasina Moncheck and Malea Bode

Juliana Taylor and dad Dan

Alexa McFerran and Lauren Moore

Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 7

Peters Township Municipal Pages

From the TownshipManager The Peters Township Council has been working to develop an amendment to the Townshipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Zoning Ordinance that regulates Gas Drilling. To that effort, a number of draft ordinances have been put forth and two public hearings have been conducted. There is an active movement of residents attending meetings. Some are promoting a total ban on gas drilling, others more stringent regulations. The Township solicitor has stated that he believes such a ban would not be upheld. Council has currently directed the staff to prepare a more comprehensive ordinance addressing comments that were raised at the last hearing and at various meetings. This process has been slow moving, but with the benefit of the Council and staff learning more about the process and ordinance options. Currently, the Administrative and Planning staffs are reviewing issues such as size of property, locations of properties, placement of compressor stations, pipe lines, traffic routes, noise, financial ability, local inspection, emergency response and other issues. It was the goal of the staff to be able to complete their task by the end of March, so that

Council can review a new draft ordinance and eventually schedule a hearing, hopefully in May, and then be able to act on the ordinance in June. Council has been extremely concerned about this issue and the potential effects of gas drilling in the Township. It should be noted this is not just a Peters Township issue, but a regional one. Most, if not all communities can expect to see gas drilling sooner or later. We already have gas drilling in our neighboring communities of Nottingham Township, Cecil and Union Township. Peters Township would not be at a disadvantage compared to other communities, relative to a desirable place to live. However, I do not wish to sugar coat the matter. We know that during the drilling process there is a considerable amount of invasive activity, including truck traffic, 24 hour drilling, site grading etc. In addition there is a host of environmental concerns that have been legitimately raised that need to be addressed on a state regulatory basis. We are addressing as many issues as legally possible; unfortunately many of the issues that residents will find objectionable are state regulated. It

does not appear the state will be willing to place a moratorium on drilling, and regulations addressing concerns of setbacks, increased inspection, bonding, restoration and environmental monitoring seem to be slow in coming. We are precluded by the Pennsylvania Oil and Gas Act, from regulating any activity that is governed by that act. We can control the location of the activity and that is somewhat limited by historical court case law. On the other hand, the Township must also balance the interests for property owners who wish to sell their gas rights. Many of these are farmers, who are looking to find ways to continue farming and not have to sell their farms to developers. I can assure you on behalf of Council and staff that, as we do with all topics, we will take a deliberate and detailed approach in addressing this issue.

Peters Township Council Members

Frank Arcuri

Robert Atkison Chairman

8 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

David M. Ball Peters Township

James F. Berquist

Robert Lewis

Monica R. Merrell Vice Chairperson

Gary J. Stiegel, Jr.

Dates to Remember 4/15 2010 Year End Income Tax Reconciliation due 4/16 Bunny Hop at the CRC 10 a.m. – Noon TM

4/22 Municipal Offices/CRC/Library closed 4/30 Clean-Up Day at the CRC 9 a.m. – Noon 4/30 EQB Recycling event at the Public Works Garage, 9 a.m. – Noon 5/15 Hofbauer Field Light Dedication 7 p.m. 5/17 Primary Elections 5/30 Memorial Day—Municipal Offices, CRC & Library Closed Garbage Delayed 1 day all week 6/7

Municipal Real Estate Tax Due at Discount

6/11 5K Race at CRC 9 a.m. 6/18 Tennis Fun Day at tennis center 9 a.m. -1 p.m. 6/25 Community Day at Peterswood Park 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Drug Take Back Program Residents from the community may drop off old or unwanted prescription drugs at local businesses in order to save them from being disposed of in an unsafe way. The Drug Take Back Initiative was developed with the assistance of the Peters Township Police Department and the DEA. The program is designed to keep prescription drugs off the streets and out of the community groundwater.

Clean Up Day 2011

The annual Clean Up Day in Peters Township, which usually coincides with the Great American Clean Up of Pennsylvania, is scheduled for 9 a.m. Saturday, April 30. The event was moved back a week so as not to conflict with the Easter Holiday weekend. This is an opportunity for residents to help rid the community of unsightly trash and debris that has accumulated along our streets and roadways. And the event is not limited to the elimination of roadside litter. Individuals or groups can opt to clean up a stream, a local park or similar public area. Volunteers will again gather at the Peters Township Community Recreation Center in Peterswood Park to get their safety vests and trash bags, and then depart for their assigned (or selected) street areas. There will be coffee, juice, and doughnuts for all those who register at the Recreation Center. Volunteers will receive a T-shirt as a token gift of appreciation. Individuals or groups who can’t participate on April 30 can select another date. Bags and vests will be provided as well as disposal of all collected trash and debris. For more information, call the Public Works Department at 724.941.6161.

Drop off unwanted drugs to these locations: McMurray Dairy Mart Walgreen’s Kmart 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Residents may drop off unwanted drugs at the Peters Township Police Station any time. For more information about the Drug Take Back Initiative please see page 63.

Peters Township | February/March 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 9

Peters Township Municipal Pages

Paul Lauer, Assistant Township Manager

Your Municipal Staff Heads

Michael A. Silvestri, Township Manager

Michael Silvestri has been Manager since 1981. He has a bachelor of science degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in Geography/Urban & Regional Planning and a masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Pittsburgh. Prior to becoming Township Manager, he was Assistant Township Manager/Planning Director for Peters from 1976-1981. He is married to Susan, one daughter, Michelle, and one granddaughter, Marissa. He is a member of the McMurray Rotary and serves on the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission.

Harry J. Fruecht, Public Safety Director and Emergency Management Coordinator Chief Fruecht has been with the Peters Township Police Department since June 1988. He is a graduate of both Penn State University and the FBI National Academy. He is responsible for Public Safety and is Emergency Management Coordinator for the township. The Chief is the liaison between the Peters Township Police Department and the Youth Commission and participates in the Character Counts initiative. The Chief is married and has two daughters and two grandchildren.

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Peters Township

Paul Lauer has been the Assistant Township Manager for Peters Township since 1984. Prior to working for Peters Township, Paul was employed by South Park Township and Wilkinsburg Borough. Paul holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Lock Haven University and masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degrees from the University of Pittsburgh School of Business and the School of Public and International Affairs. In his spare time he volunteers as a leader for the Boy Scouts of America and a garden steward for the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy.

Peter Overcashier, Public Works Director Peter Overcashier has served as the head of this department since December of 1978. He oversees street and storm sewer maintenance, sign and signal maintenance, buildings and grounds maintenance as well as maintenance of park and recreation facilities. Prior to his service with Peters Township, he was employed by the Ohio Department of Transportation in the capacity of Assistant Superintendent of Highway Maintenance. He currently is President of the Western Pa. Chapter of the American Public Works Association.

Daniel G. Coyle, Fire Chief Daniel Coyle began his fire service career as a volunteer in 1977 with Peters Township Fire Marshal for 6 years 1982-1988. He has been Fire Chief since 1988, is married with one daughter and two granddaughters. He is a member of the National Fire Protection Association International Association of Fire Chiefs, has a Fire Science degree from Community College of Allegheny County and is a graduate of the National Fire Academy.

Mark A. Zemaitis, P.E., Director of Engineering Mark has been Director of Engineering since 2007. He has a bachelor of science degree in Civil Engineering from Penn State University and is a Professional Engineer licensed to practice in Pennsylvania. Prior to becoming Director of Engineering, he had worked in the private sector as a consulting engineer since 1995. He is a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers and the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Engineers.

Edward J. Zuk, Planning Director Ed has served as Peters Township’s Planning Director since 1995. A graduate of Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Science in Geography and Land Use Planning, Ed worked as a city planner in both Chandler and Wickenburg, Arizona prior to joining PT’s Planning Department as Assistant Planner in 1990. He is a member of APA – American Planning Association and PPA – Pennsylvania Planning Association. Ed resides in the township with his wife Marylu and son Abott.

Michele Harmel, Parks and Recreation Director Michele has been the Parks and Recreation Director since 2006. Before moving to Pennsylvania she was the Parks and Recreation Director for the City of Streetsboro, Ohio. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Recreation Management from Kent State University. She is a Certified Parks and Recreation Professional through the National Recreation and Parks Association. She is a member of the National Recreation and Parks Association and the Pennsylvania Recreation and Parks Society. She is single and has a great 5-year-old Chihuahua named Darla.

Pier M. Lee, Library Director Pier M. Lee has been Director of Peters Township Public Library since 1975. She earned a degree in foreign languages and literature from National Taiwan University and a master’s in library science from Vanderbilt University. Prior to her role within the Township, Mrs. Lee was the library director at Virginia Western Community College.

Announcement

Peters Township announces that John (Jay) Mizia, Jr. has been promoted from Light Equipment Operator to the Parks Maintenance Supervisor. Jay will be responsible for overseeing operations of all park grounds and facilities. Jay is a 15 year employee who has worked in Public Works and Parks. He is originally from Peters Township. Jay is replacing David Shanks who retired after 20 years in the position.

20+ Years of Service

Peters Township wishes to recognize employees that have served the community for an extended period of time. There are three employees in the Public Works/Parks staff that have reached the 20-year milestone or longer. They are Matt Blasch (30 years), Joe Wilson (20 years) and Joe Podolinsky (20 years).

Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 11

Peters Township Municipal Pages

PERMITS ARE REQUIRED FOR MANY HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS

Some home improvement projects require a permit from the township’s Planning Department. The list below highlights just a few of the items for which homeowners must secure a permit before beginning any construction work. If you have any doubt about whether a permit is needed, don’t hesitate to drop by or call. The Planning Office is located on the lower level of the Municipal Building and is open weekdays from 8:30 to 4:30. The phone number is 724.942.5005. Structures: If you want to build any type of structure – an addition to your house, a shed, a deck or a pool (in-ground or above ground) – you will have to obtain a building permit. You must submit a recent survey of your property, one that is stamped with a surveyor’s seal. The exact site and location of your proposed structure must be shown on the survey. House additions and any structures require two sets of building drawings. Fees are determined by an adopted fee schedule. All construction also requires the inspections listed on the permit. To schedule these inspections, call 724.942.5008 or 724.942.5005 at least 24 hours in advance and leave a message on the machine. The message must include the permit number, the address and phone number. The building inspector will return your call and/or come to your home for the inspection. Swimming Pool Fencing Specifications: The Code defines a swimming pool as “any structure intended for swimming or recreational bathing that contains water over 24” deep”. This includes in-ground, above-ground, on-ground swimming pools, hot tubs and spas. All pools must be surrounded by a barrier meeting all the requirements of the code of at least 48”. Above-ground pools of 48” or greater may use the wall structure of the pool as the barrier. If a stairway or ladder is present they must be capable of being locked. Small on-ground pools containing less than 24” of water are exempt as they do not fall within the definitions of a swimming pool. Spas and hot tubs with an approved safety cover are also exempt from this requirement. All other pools, including blow up pools containing more than 24” of water must comply with the barrier requirements. All pools, spas and hot tubs with filtering systems must be installed to meet the requirements of the National Electrical Code. Those individuals installing an in-ground pool please note that there are specific requirements for fencing. The top of the fence must be at least 48” above grade. Openings in the fence shall not allow the passage of a 4” diameter sphere. Where the fence is composed of horizontal and vertical members the distance between the tops of the horizontal members must be 45 inches or more. 12 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

Peters Township

Zoning Permits: A Zoning Permit is required (rather than a building permit) for accessory structures 120 Sq. Ft. or less. This includes, but is not limited to items such as: sheds, sport courts, outdoor fireplaces, and play structures. Fences and Free Standing Walls: A survey is required showing the proposed location of a new fence or free standing wall. Check with the township on the maximum height and setbacks permitted. No fences or walls shall be located within a public or private road right of way. Remodeling: Certain types of remodeling require a permit. Remodeling projects require permits if they are structural in nature or include electrical or plumbing changes. Changes such as siding and roof shingle replacement do not require a permit. Call if you are not sure. Fire Sprinkler Systems: Effective January 1, 2011 all newly constructed single family residential homes will be required to have a fire sprinkler system. The system may be a stand- alone system independent from the water distribution system or a multipurpose system providing water to both fire sprinklers and plumbing fixtures. This regulation only applies to new constructed single family homes. Alterations, renovations or additions to existing homes will not create the need for installation of a sprinkler system in the existing home nor in the addition. Permits applied for prior to the January 1, 2011 date were exempt from this requirement. Grading: New grading on your property may also require a permit. If you are creating a slope that exceeds a 1-foot rise in a 3-foot distance (1:3), if you are filling or excavating more than 500 cubic yards, or if you are filling or excavating more than 4 feet in depth, you need a permit. Rights of Way and Easements: Your property line may be as much as 13 feet from the curb! Any digging in a township or state right of way requires a permit. If you plan to dig in or near the right of way on your property, you are required to call 811 or 1.800.242.1776 beforehand to check with PA-One-CALL that there are no underground utilities you could dig into and damage. The website is www.pa811.org. Elaborate posts or pillars must be kept back at least 3 feet from the curb to avoid damage to utilities or drains. It is recommended that you contact the Building Inspector prior to installation to ensure that they are located properly. Yard sprinkler systems and invisible fences are not permitted in the right of way. They can be damaged during excavation required for normal maintenance of utilities and roads. You may also have utility easements crossing your property.

Property Maintenance Code Summary

In October, 2007, Ordinance #696 was adopted establishing a Property Maintenance Code (PMC) in Peters Township. The intent and purpose of the ordinance is to have a modern property maintenance code that will help ensure that persons in or visiting Peters Township are provided with a safe and sanitary environment. The provisions within the PMC are intended to preserve and protect property values in Peters Township. It should be noted that a great deal of communities in Pennsylvania, as well as throughout the country find it necessary to adopt minimum standards for property maintenance so as to prevent public nuisances. Local examples include Upper St. Clair, Mount Lebanon, and Bethel Park. This Code includes, but is not limited to the following list of items: exterior property maintenance, safe sight distance, upkeep of exterior structures, unsafe structures and equipment, and abandonment of construction projects. Below is a brief summary of the five most commonly addressed issues of the PMC. UnSafe Structures Section 69 has language that allows the Building Inspector to determine if a structure is unsafe and must be demolished. Exterior Property Areas Section 76 of the PMC refers to “Exterior Property Areas.” The most common items addressed in this section are high grass/weeds, and safe sight distance. The PMC specifies that grass cannot be higher than 10”, and that residents cannot allow vegetation to grow into the streets blocking safe views for drivers. Swimming Pools Section 77 specifies that swimming pools must be in good repair and not permit stagnant water. Exterior Structure Maintenance Section 78, Exterior Structure, maintains that structures must be in good repair and safe in key areas such as, but not limited to: porches, protective treatment, foundation and exterior walls, stairways, doors, and windows. Using Section 76 in conjunction with Section 78 prevents derelict/ abandoned properties from devaluing a neighborhood. The PMC is on the Peters Township website at www.peterstownship.com Click on Code of Ordinances, and click on Health and Safety. It is Part 3. If residents have concerns with properties not being maintained, please call the Planning Department at 724.942.5005, or email us – go to the Peters Township homepage and click on Citizen Action Line to do so.

Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 13

Peters Township Municipal Pages

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Peters Township

Reading, Rec & More Parks and Recreation Department 700 Meredith Drive / Venetia, PA 15367 724.942.5000 www.peterstownship.com COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER HOURS Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday 1 – 5 p.m.

SESSION 3 May 2 through June 28, 2011 Registration begins April 18, 2011

CLOSED for the respective holidays Friday, April 22 – Good Friday Sunday, April 24 – Easter Sunday Monday, May 30 – Memorial Day Saturday, June 25 – Community Day

EASY WAYS TO REGISTER: Online: www.peterstownship.com Walk in: cash/check/Visa/Master Card accepted Mail in: check and registration form to the Parks and Recreation Department, 700 Meredith Drive, Venetia, PA 15367

CLASS AND EVENT REGISTRATION: REGISTERING AT THE FIRST CLASS IS RISKY.

Special Events

What if a program is cancelled? Please register for programs at least one week prior to the start date to avoid cancellation. All classes must meet a predetermined minimum number of participants to be held. The Parks and Recreation Department reserves the right to cancel, combine or change any aspect of a program it deems necessary. Residents are given first priority during the registration process for events and classes. Sports programs are open to residents only. Refund policy: Full refunds will be given if requested more than 7 days before a class begins. All refunds requested by participants less than 7 days before a class begins will be assessed a $5 processing fee, plus any supplies already purchased. Refunds will not be given after the second class. Sorry, but refunds are not offered for special one-day classes or events, unless canceled. Call 724.942.5000 for information regarding day trips. Please allow 2-4 weeks for refunds to be processed.

BunnyHop REMINDER

GET LIT UP

Join us for a fun-filled morning with the Bunny, crafts and games galore for the kids with prizes, and a popular balloon artist will “wow” the kids and adults alike with balloon creations. Fun for the whole family! All children must be accompanied by an adult. Volunteers needed… for more information please contact Lisa Whittaker, Recreation Supervisor. Date: Saturday, April 16 Time: 10 a.m. – Noon Fee: $5 Resident / $7 Non-Resident (per child age 2 and up) Pre-registration not required.

www.peterstownship.com 724.942.5000

Join the Township along with the Football Association, Lacrosse Association and Cheerleading Association for a Cinco de Mayo celebration. These sports associations raised the money to “Raise the Lights,” now we are having a ribbon cutting and ceremonial lighting of these new lights and some sports demonstrations at Hofbauer Field in Peterswood Park. We hope to see you there! Day: Thursday, May 5 Time: 7 p.m.

Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 15

Reading, Rec & More

More Special Events

33rd Annual Community Day

5K RACE

Come and enjoy food, entertainment, raffles, games and more, in Peterswood Park. Learn more about local vendors, what they have to offer and take advantage of their giveaway’s. Parking will be available at Bower Hill and the Middle School with shuttle service to the park. Traffic will be one way through the park all day. If you are an area business that would like to donate to the event, donors will be acknowledged in our publicity if received by June 4. Don’t miss these wonderful opportunities to get involved in such a great community-wide event. Contact Parks and Recreation for more information. Day: Saturday, June 25 Time: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Fee: FREE

This race, sponsored by Peters Township Parks and Recreation and co-sponsored by the High School Cross Country Booster Club, begins at the Peters Township Community Recreation Center. There are several categories of runners and multiple winners! If you are interested in competing you may register online at www.peterstownship.com or pick up an application at the Recreation Center. Registration/check in the day of the event will be from 7:30 – 8:45 a.m. Sponsorships are also available for this event. Day: Saturday, June 11 Time: 9 a.m. Fee: $20 if post marked by May 25 / $25 after May 25

Mark the Date! Saturday, June 25, 2011

COMMUNITY DAY FIREWORKS To wrap up the day of festivities, enjoy a great fireworks display, by Pyrotecnico. Please note, there will be no entering the park after 9:25 p.m. until after the display is complete. Day: Saturday, June 25 Time: 9:30 p.m. FREE Location: Peterswood Park

Summer Camps SUMMER DAY CAMP

THEATRE CAMP

PLAYGROUND PALS

(AGES 6 – 11 YEARS) Fun & educational themed weeks with speakers and special activities relating to the theme. Games, sports, trail hikes, arts & crafts and more! More information next issue, or contact the Parks and Recreation Department. Days: Monday through Friday Time: 9 – 12 p.m. Session Start Dates: July 11, July 18, July 25 Fee: $55 Resident / $83 Non-Resident (per session) Location: Peterswood Park, Shelter 4

(AGES 7 – 12 YEARS) Calling all aspiring actors: play theater games; engage your creativity and work together to put on Friday’s big show! This camp will be held at the Amphitheater in Peterswood Park. More information next issue, or contact the Parks and Recreation Department. Days: Monday through Friday Start Dates: July 11 – 15 Time: 1 – 4 p.m. Fee: $55 Resident / $83 Non-Resident

(AGES 4 – 8 YEARS) For children who like games, sports, crafts and special guest speakers. More information next issue, or contact the Parks and Recreation Department. Days: Monday, Wednesday, Friday Time: 9:30 a.m. – noon Session Start Dates: August 1, August 8, August 15 Location: Elm Grove Park Fee: $35 Resident / $53 Non-Resident (per week) Pre-registration required

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Reading, Rec & More

TENNIS CENTER

Day: Saturday, June 18 Time: 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Fee: FREE

Peters Township Park and Recreation Department Tennis Center, Tennis Fun Day Event, sponsored by the Tennis Association and the High School Tennis Teams, all are invited to a free day of tennis clinics, round robin play, speed serving contests, prizes, give aways, food, refreshments and more. Contact the Tennis Center for more information 724.941.1330.

5TH ANNUAL TENNIS FUN DAY COURT RENTAL

SPRING JUNIOR DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM (MAY 9 – JUNE 12) LEVEL Peewee (3 – 5 years)

Beginner/Advanced Beginner Intermediate/Advanced Inter Advanced/Tournament Training

DAY Thursday Thursday Tuesday Thursday Tuesday Thursday Monday Wednesday

TIME 11—11:30 a.m. 1—1:30 p.m. 6—7 p.m. 6—7 p.m. 4—6 p.m. 4—6 p.m. 4—6 p.m. 4—6 p.m.

NON $60 $60 $120 $120 $240 $240 $240 $240

RESIDENT $20 per day $20 per day

NON $30 per day COST: $30 per day ADULT-$160 Resident /$240 Non-Resident

ADULT CLINICS LEVEL Beginners Jerry’s Drill Court Includes all levels

TOURNAMENTS

DAY TIME Monday 6—7:30 p.m. Tuesday/Thursday 6—7:30 p.m.

$16 per hour / per court Non-Resident—additional $3 each $7 per hour—Peters Township Student

RESIDENT $40 $40 $80 $80 $160 $160 $160 $160

SEASON PASSES (Includes unlimited use of all courts when available and light expense) PASS DATES: Early May (Clay courts will be available after required maintenance is complete) through late September

SENIOR (55+) & JUNIOR (under 16) $140 Resident / $210 Non-Resident USTA Junior (DR) Tournament: BG Ages 12—18 years, June 21—June 24 USTA Junior (SR) Tournament: Girls 14 July 15—17 USTA Junior (DR) Tournament: BG 12—16 years August 19—21

FAMILY $350 Resident / $525 Non-Resident FAMILY $300 Resident / $450 Nonresident

Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 17

Reading, Rec & More PRESCHOOL PROGRAMS LITTLE TOT BUTTERFLY WALK will perform in class, on the last (AGES 3 – 5 YEARS) Minimum 5 – Maximum 25 We will learn about the life cycle of a butterfly, learn the basic parts of a butterfly, do a fun craft, take a walk to search for butterflies… dress in play clothes. (Will reschedule in the case of inclement weather) Day: Thursday, June 30 Time: 10 – 11:30 a.m. Fee: $5 Member / $7 Non-Member Location: Shelter 4/Part of trail by Shelter 4

DANCING TOGETHER! (ADULT PARTICIPATION) (AGES 1.5 - 3 YEARS) Minimum 7 – Maximum 12 This class is designed to give children the beginning elements of dance in a fun, comfortable, and creative learning environment. The instructor will guide you through both listening and moving activities, and dances to get you both dancing around hand in hand. We will use props, sing songs, let the children explore the dance space, and have fun! (Adult participation required.) Instructor: Richelle Pastula, Dance Force Kids Day: Thursday Time: 11:15 – 11:45 a.m. Fee: $62 Member / $93 Non-Member

PRINCESS PRE-BALLET (AGES 3 – 5 YEARS) Minimum 7 – Maximum 14 Calling all Princesses! In this magical princess themed class, they will learn ballet, creative dance, individual steps, across the floor movement and dance combinations. While dancing to their favorite princess music they will use fun props like scarves, magic wands, & more. All dancers

day of the session. Instructor: Richelle Pastula, Dance Force Kids Day: Wednesday Time: 3:30 – 4:15 p.m. Day: Thursday Time: 10:30 – 11:15 p.m. Fee: $69 Member / $104 Non-Member

KIDS TUMBLE & MOVE (AGES 2.5 – 4 YEARS) Minimum 7 – Maximum 12 Children will learn basic tumbling like, crab walks, log rolls, jumps, bear walks, and leap frogs. We will do fun movement games and dances to help promote balance, rhythm, and body control. We will practice taking turns, performing in front of each other, working with partners, sing songs, dance with props, and more! (Adults wait outside of the classroom.) Instructor: Richelle Pastula, Dance Force Kids Day: Wednesday Time: 4:15 – 4:45 p.m. Fee: $62 Member / $93 Non-Member

BASKETBALL FOR CHILDREN (AGES 3 – 6 YEARS) Minimum 8 – Maximum 15 Enjoy learning the glorious team sport of basketball. Have a blast learning to make baskets, dribble, pass and play. Enthusiasm, excitement and energy will be a part of every class! Instructor: “Koach” Tim Conroy. Day: Monday Time: 1 – 1:45 p.m. OR Day: Thursday Time: 9:30 – 10:15 a.m. Fee: $72 Member / $108 Non-Member

JOYFUL MOVEMENT AND PLAY (AGES 3 – 6 YEARS)

Minimum 8 – Maximum 20 Running, hopping, sliding… Throwing, catching, kicking… Movement the essence of Life! Have your child experience the thrill of it all. Instructor: “Koach” Tim Conroy Day: Monday Time: 10 – 10:45 a.m. OR TINY TOTS BALLET Day: Thursday (AGES 2 – 3 YEARS) Time: 12:30 – 1:15 p.m. Minimum 7 – Maximum 12 Fee: $72 Member / Magic Wands, Teddy Bears, & Tutus! $108 Non-Member Your child will love this action packed FUN class. They will be GROOVY SCIENCE introduced to ballet, creative (AGES 2 – 6 YEARS) movement, learn ballet steps, use Minimum 5 – Maximum 20 props, sing songs and begin to Class will include dinosaurs, understand dance terminology. geysers, kaleidoscopes, ice cream (Adults wait outside of the making and other fun science classroom.) experiments specifically for the Instructor: Richelle Pastula, preschooler. This interactive class Dance Force Kids allows all young children to work Day: Thursday together and captivate their Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m. attention in science at an early Fee: $69 Member / age. This is a great class for $104 Non-Member siblings to work side by side and enjoy time together too.

Instructor: Kathy Heinz Day: Monday Time: 9:15 – 10:15 a.m. OR Day: Friday Time: 10:15 – 11:15 a.m. Fee: $80 Member / $120 Non-Member Material Fee: $30 paid to instructor paid at the first class

BEGINNER’S IRISH DANCE (GRADES K – 5) Minimum 5 – Maximum 15 The class will teach you the basics of Irish Step Dancing. Students are required to wear either ballet slippers or socks, and should bring a water bottle. Students will have a great time learning the beginnings of Irish Step Dancing, while exercising at the same time! Instructor: Molly Doehring, 13 years experience with the Pittsburgh Irish Reelers. Day: Monday Time: 5 – 6 p.m. Fee: $75 Members / $100 Non-Members

KITCHEN SCIENCE (AGES 2 – 6 YEARS) Minimum 5 – Maximum 20 Ideal for 2 – 6 year olds who like to do science in the kitchen. Experiments will include things such as making homemade ice cream, edible slime (yum!), growing edible crystals, and fashioning a soap sculpture along with other fun activities. Fun for siblings to join in together too. Instructor: Kathy Heinz Day: Tuesday Time: 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Fee: $80 Member / $120 Non-Member Material Fee: $30 paid to instructor paid at the first class

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Reading, Rec & More SOUTH ARTS CLASSES LITTLE ARTIST’S ART CLASS

JR. DRAWING & CARTOONING

(AGES 4 – 5 YEARS) Minimum 5 – Maximum 15 Little artists will have a really fun time using their imaginations to express themselves by creating big masterpieces! Keepsake projects will be a canvas painting, a clay sculpture, a water color painting, and much more. PLEASE DRESS TO GET MESSY! Parents are welcome to stay and help create! Instructor: Karen Hartman Day: Thursday Time: 10 – 11 a.m. Day: Thursday Time: 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m Fee: $85 Member / $128 Non-Member

(AGES 5 – 12 YEARS) Minimum 3 – Maximum 10 Let’s draw realistically and, then, turn that drawing into a cartoon! Students will learn the basics of drawing such as shading and drawing marks of a specific subject and, then use their imaginations for a fun cartoon. Please bring an 11 X 14 sketchbook or larger, a #2 pencil and a black sharpie marker. Day: Tuesday Time: 6 – 7 p.m. Fee: $85 Member / $128 Non-Member

CREATIVE CLAY & SCULPTURE FOR KIDS

(AGES 12 – 17 YEARS) Minimum 3 – Maximum 10 Do you like to doodle? In this fun class, your doodles will be turned into cool drawings. We will explore word art and graffiti, drawing marks used for cartooning, and simple perspective. We will use markers, pencils and charcoal to create lots of imaginative drawings. Please bring an 11 X 14 sketchbook or larger, a black Sharpie, and a #2 pencil. Day: Tuesday Time: 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. Fee: $85 Member / $128 Non-Member

(AGES 5 – 11 YEARS) Minimum 3 – Maximum 10 In this fun “hands on” class, students will express their creativity with air-dry clay. Exciting projects will include: a pinch pot, a coil vase, an animal sculpture, and their hand print in clay. Day: Monday Time: 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Fee: $85 Member / $128 Non-Member

SPRING THEMED ART: DRAWING, PAINTING & SCULPTURE (AGES 5 – 12 YEARS) Minimum 3 – Maximum 10 Let’s draw realistically and, then, turn that drawing into a cartoon! Students will learn the basics of drawing such as shading and drawing marks of a specific subject and, then use their imaginations for a fun cartoon. Please bring an 11 X 14 sketchbook or larger, a #2 pencil and a black Sharpie marker. Day: Monday Time: 6:45 – 7:45 p.m. Fee:$85 Member / $128 Non-Member

DRAWING & CARTOONING FOR TEENS

WATERCOLOR PAINTING FOR CHILDREN (AGES 5 – 12 YEARS) Minimum 3 – Maximum 10 Students will create colorful paintings while learning fun techniques of watercolor. Rice and salt washes will be explored to create texture and to make the colors run into each other for a totally colorful result. Day: Wednesday Time: 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Fee: $85 Member / $128 Non-Member

IMPRESSIONIST PAINTING FOR ADULTS (AGES 18+ YEARS) Minimum 3 – Maximum 10 Students will learn about the great Impressionist Masters in this informative acrylic painting class. Claude Monet, Pierre Auguste Renoir, Edouard Manet and Edgar Degas will be explored while the students learn to paint in swift, fuzzy strokes. Day: Wednesday Time: 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. Fee: $85 Member / $128 Non-Member

YOUTH AND TEEN CHOI KWANG DO / MARTIAL ARTS INSTRUCTION Come and experience all the benefits for all ages with this martial art. Along with physical and mental conditioning comes increased self esteem, attention span, self control, respect of others and learning to become a leader in all aspects of life. Like the traditional martial arts there will be belt ranks and testing, but done with positive encouragement. Instructor: Dawn Childers Day: Thursday Ages: 3 – 5 Time: 4:30 – 5 p.m. Minimum 2 - Maximum 6 per class Ages: 3 – 5 Time: 5 – 5:30 p.m. Minimum 2 - Maximum 6 per class Ages: 6 – 13 Time: 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Minimum 2 – Maximum 10 per class Ages: 6 – 13 Time: 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Minimum 2 – Maximum 10 per class Family class for ages: 7 and above Time: : 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. Minimum 2 – Maximum 12 per class Fee: $70 Member / $105 Non-Member Uniform Fee: $25 uniform not included; to be paid to instructor

KIDS HIP HOP BOOGIE (AGES 5 – 8 YEARS) Minimum 7 – Maximum 14 Bounce, Jump, & Spin! Your child will love this energetic and action packed class. They will learn basic hip hop dance moves to fun kid’s music while building confidence, coordination, and rhythm. Movement games, using their imagination, and being creative is all a part of this great class. Kids will perform in class on last day of class. Instructor: Richelle Pastula, Dance Force Kids Day: Wednesday Time: 4:45 – 5:30 p.m. Fee: $69 Member / $104 Non-Member CONTINUED >

Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 19

Reading, Rec & More Adult

MORE YOUTH AND TEEN “BEHAVE”…MANNERS MAKE IMPRESSIONS (AGES 6 – 13 YEARS) Minimum 5 – Maximum 12 May I Leave the table without saying “Excuse Me”? No, you may not. Good manners will promote self-confidence. Bring your child to a Mother, May I class to learn proper behavior, social skills, and common courtesies. Instruction will include tips on introductions, mealtime manners, and understanding why proper behavior is important. Impress upon your children that good manners will make a difference. Instructor: Mother, May I (Demetria Pappas) Day: Thursday, May 12, 19, 26, June 2,9,16, (Individual classes are offered on 6 consecutive Thursdays sign up for one or all) Time: 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. Fee: $15 Members / $23 Non-Member (per each date offered) Meal Fee: $2.50 not included—paid to instructor

SAQ (SPEED – AGILITY – QUICKNESS) CLASS (AGES 8 – 18 YEARS) Minimum 8 – Maximum 15 SAQ is targeted to help improve your child’s athletic performance. This class will progressively incorporate and develop the skills needed to attain optimal efficiency in the primary component of the athlete: SPEED. This class will specifically address the attributes of balance, core body strength, agility, and conditioning through the implementation of such drills and exercises. Instructor: Ralph Schmidt Day: Monday Time: 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. Fee: $70 Member / $105 Non-Member

BEGINNER/INTERMEDIATE YOGA

BUTTS AND GUTS

Minimum 6 – Maximum 20 Terry Gustas is certified through Yoga Alliance in the 200-hour certification. She is currently pursuing the completion of the 500-hour advance yoga training program at Kripalu. She will offer to her students a unique blend of various styles of Hatha yoga. Increase strength, flexibility and endurance and reduce the effects of stress using breath work, meditation, and yoga posture. YOGA MAT REQUIRED! Instructor: Terry Gustas Day: Tuesday Time: 9 – 10 a.m. Fee: $50 Member / $75 Non-Member

Minimum 5 – Maximum 18 This variation on Total Body Sculpting class focuses specifically on the lower body and core muscles groups. Mix between cardio and weight lifting, your summer body will arrive in time for the beach! All levels welcome. Instructor: Rebekah “Rauch” Tarbert Day: Thursday Time: 8 – 9 p.m. Fee: $45 Member / $68 Non-Member

BALLET WORKOUT (AGES 14 – ADULT) Minimum 3 – Maximum 20 Learn the concepts and techniques of classical ballet as studied in center floor. You will be guided through a full body workout. Start with a series of warm-up exercises. Increase your progression to include fluid body movements, jumps, turns and leaps all while strengthening core muscles, building stamina and increasing your balance. Enjoy the beauty, benefits, and pleasure of ballet exercise for toning/elongating muscles, cardiovascular fitness and mental alertness. No prior experience required. Instructor: Janet E. Furtney of Improvement thru Movement Day: Tuesday Time: 11 a.m. – Noon OR Day: Thursday Time: 7 – 8 p.m. Fee: $64 Member / $96 Non-Member

STRETCH AND TONE (ALL AGES) Minimum 5 – Maximum 15 Would you like to release some tension and see more tone/muscles in your body? This class provides a mixture of full body stretch along with utilizing our own body weight for some toning. We will incorporate upper body and lower body strengthening and stretching. All fitness levels are welcome. Instructor: Stacy A. Ball is a certified personal trainer. Please bring a mat and a positive attitude! Day: Monday Time: 6 – 6:45 p.m. Fee: $35 Members / $53 Non-Member

MIXED LEVEL BELLY DANCE (ALL AGES) Minimum 5 – Maximum 15 Shimmy and sweat as you learn the ancient art form of Middle Eastern Dance otherwise known as Belly Dance, from the ladies of Sadiqa. This class

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Peters Township

Reading, Rec & More Fitness will focus on fundamentals of Belly Dance from technique to stylization. Learn creative combos and drill them fast and slow for a fun Belly Dance workout. Experience is a plus, but class is suitable for all levels whether you are brand new or wanting to improve your skills. Wear something comfortable and bring a bottle of water! Instructors: Joanna Abel and Karianne Merlina of Sadiqa Belly Dance Day: Wednesday Time: 7:30 – 8:45 p.m. Fee: $80 Members / $120 Non-Member

PILATES WITH PROPS Minimum 10 – Maximum 20 A fresh spin on basic Pilates matwork, using all sorts of props rings, bands, balls and weights. Each class will be different, introducing new props and choreography for a fun, exciting, and effective workout. Instructor: Marjorie Kay Conrad Day: Tuesday Time: 8 – 9 p.m. Fee: $40 Member / $60 Non-Member

DIRTY 30 BOOT CAMP Minimum 10 – Maximum 20 This is a 30-minute boot camp that will help kick you into shape or better shape. It is structured to pack in a full body workout each class combining muscle strength and endurance with cardio. This class will challenge you and all fitness levels are encouraged to join (modifications will be demonstrated). Find out why this

class is called a Dirty 30! Instructor: Suzie Bode Day: Monday OR Friday Time: 9:30 – 10 a.m. Fee: $25 Member / $38 Non-Member

POWER HOUR BOOT CAMP Minimum 10 – Maximum 20 It is possible to burn 700 calories in an hour! This 1 hour boot camp class will help you build strength and muscle, improve endurance, and keep you motivated to reach your fitness goals. Modifications for the exercises will be demonstrated for all fitness levels. During this power packed hour, calories won't be the only thing burning! Day: Wednesday Time: 9 – 10 a.m. Fee: $25 Member / $38 Non-Member

20/20/20 Minimum 6 – Maximum 18 This class will keep you moving with two 20-minute segments of cardio exercise and 20 minutes of total body sculpting. Each class will be different with cardio segments consisting of basic step aerobics, and kickboxing. Each workout will challenge you with the perfect mix of cardio and strength training exercises, without boring you with the same weekly routine. Certified Instructor: Jennifer Alexander Day: Monday Time: 10 – 11 a.m. Fee: $40 Member / $60 Non-Member

size or bulk. This class will complement your fitness program by helping to retain lean muscle tissue while boosting metabolism. The class will challenge your body by using free weights, resistance bands and the body ball. Any fitness level can enroll. Certified Instructor: Jennifer Alexander Day: Friday Time: 10 – 11 a.m. Fee: $40 Member / $60 Non-Member

CARDIO COMBO

YOGA - EVENING

Minimum 6 – Maximum 18 This one-hour class will keep you moving with five-minute cardio and three-minute weight segments. The cardio will consist of basic step, kickboxing, and plyometrics while the sculpting segment will include weights, resistance band, ball, and abdominal work. Get all of your cardio and sculpting done in one fast-paced hour! Certified Instructor: Jennifer Alexander Day: Wednesday Time: 10 – 11 a.m. Fee: $40 Member / $60 Non-Member

Minimum 8 – Maximum 30 Suitable for all levels of healthy students, we don’t just sit in this class… we use our muscles, especially our core. We focus on body and breath awareness. Some of the benefits you can expect from participation in this form of yoga are increased muscle strength, endurance, and coordination and progress in balance, flexibility, and relaxation. Reclaim energy and enjoy a more joyful, stress-free life. Please bring a yoga mat! Instructor: Lynn Duda Day: Tuesday Time: 6 – 7 p.m. Fee: $56 Member / $84 Non-Member

BALLS ‘N BANDS Minimum 6 – Maximum 20 Trim, tone and tighten without ever using free weights! This 30-minute class will use only resistance bands and stability balls for improved muscle tone and endurance. Obtain that sleek look while eliminating stress on your joints. Any fitness level can be accommodated with the various ball sizes and variety of resistance bands. Certified Instructor: Jennifer Alexander Day: Monday OR Wednesday Time: 11 – 11:30 a.m. Fee: $25 Member / $38 Non-Member

TOTAL BODY SCULPTING Minimum 6 – Maximum 18 Join this strength training workout designed to shape and tone the body without building muscular

Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 21

Reading, Rec & More More Adult STEP IT UP + ABS Minimum 6 – Maximum 18 High energy, heart pumping classes using step choreography to keep you moving and grooving to the beat of the music! No two classes are ever the same! Intermediate to advanced levels. Instructor: Marjorie Kay Conrad Day: Tuesday Time: 7 - 8 p.m. Fee: $40 Member / $60 Non-Member

ZUMBA Minimum 10 – Maximum 75 ZUMBA—It’s the largest Latin inspired fitness program in the world. Zumba is the fitness craze that is sweeping the nation and has become the favorite group exercise class in health clubs throughout the world. *Includes Zumba Toning which utilizes lightweight toning sticks or dumbbells. This Latin-inspired dance 'n tone program takes Zumba to the next level. Sticks can be purchased from the instructor or you can bring 1-3 lb. hand weights. Certified Zumba Instructor: Debbie Colditz Day: Tuesday Time: 7:15 – 8:15 p.m. Day: Wednesday * Time: 9 – 10 a.m. Day: Friday Time: 9 – 10 a.m. Fee: $50 Member / $75 Non-Member

MIXED LEVEL – YOGA FOR EVERY BODY Minimum 8 – Maximum 15 This Hatha Yoga class joins the breath (prana) to the postures (asanas) to create a flowing practice with a wide range of standing, seated and restorative poses. Experience at your own pace this well rounded practice including guided meditation, breathing exercises and a focus on alignment. This class is 22 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

designed to increase strength, flexibility and balance for overall health, well being and harmony. Instructor: Gayle Zacharia, Certified RYT Day: Wednesday Time: 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. OR Day: Thursday Time: 9 – 10 a.m. Fee: $55 Member / $83 Non-Member

TAI CHI FOR HEALTH Minimum 3 – Maximum 15 Learn traditional Chinese exercises known to energize the body and calm the mind. Meditation in movement, Tai Chi is a very effective way of improving balance and coordination while generating vitality and strength in the body as a whole. Movement sequences are done slowly with a minimum of force to promote concentration, self awareness and fluidity. Relaxing yet challenging, Tai Chi can be rewarding for all ages and fitness levels. Instructor: J. Gurney Bolster Day: Thursday Time: 6 – 7 p.m. OR Day: Friday Time: 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. Fee: $56 Member / $84Non-Member

INTRODUCTION TO BALLROOM DANCING (OFFERING TWO CLASSES BALLROOM I AND BALLROOM II) (AGES 14 – ADULTS) Minimum 6 – Maximum 24 Forget your troubles! Learn ballroom for exercise, cruise, wedding, school dance, or just for fun!! This course gives an introduction to the most popular dances requested at this time. It includes the slow and fast social

dances in Ballroom and Latin styles. Instructor: Kathy Burchill of Dryden Dance Center

BALLROOM I Learn basic steps and patterns in the four most used dances; Foxtrot Swing/Freestyle, Waltz and Cha Cha Cha/Salsa Day: Tuesday Time: 6 - 7:30 p.m. Fee: $75 Member / $113 Non-Member

BALLROOM II (BALLROOM 1 REQUIRED) Review dances in Ballroom 1 and add new patterns. Other Ballroom and Latin social dances will be introduced, time permitting, and according to participant interest. Day: Tuesday Time: 7:30 -9 p.m. Fee: $75 Member / $113 Non-Member

LINE DANCING – IN THE MORNING Minimum 5 – Maximum 15 Come join us for some great fun, good exercise for the mind and

the body! You will lose weight while you are having fun! Line dancing has been proven to be the best exercise to help prevent Alzheimer's disease! Come on out and meet some great people. Line dancing will open your life to a whole new world!! Two left feet?? No problem! Instructor: Frieda Hayson Day: Thursday Time: 9:15 – 11:15 a.m. Fee: $40 Member / $60 Non-Member

“MONDAY NIGHT MIX” Minimum 5 – Maximum 15 This is a one hour class featuring step, core training and light resistance training with weights. If you love a little bit of step aerobics mixed in with core training using the stability ball and basic toning with dumbbells, all set to your favorite popular music, this class is for you. All levels welcome. Instructor: Colleen Conley Day: Monday Time: 8 – 9 p.m. Fee: $40Member / $60 Non-Member

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Reading, Rec & More Programs for Families

Fitness SKINNY MIX PILATES Minimum 8 – Maximum 20 Do you want to have more confidence and energy at the end of the day? Nancy will give you the drive to stick with a program of regular exercise that will not only melt away inches, but also the tension and pain in your joints. This 13-year veteran of the fitness industry shares her energy in an easy to follow format that challenges and encourages all levels. Thirty minutes of strength and core work followed by 30 minutes of Pilates mat work. No need to watch the clock since Nancy will keep you laughing as you melt away inches and stress. Finally a mat Pilates class tailored to fit you! 2 Classes per week recommended. Instructor: Nancy Griffin NO CLASS June 20, Make Up June 27 Day: Mondays Time: 7 – 8 p.m. Fee: $56 Member / $84 Non-Member

BEST BODY PILATES Minimum 8 – Maximum 20 Are you looking for an exercise program that’s easy on joints, yet tough on muscles? Nancy’s upbeat classes include 30 minutes of balance, free weight and core exercises, followed by 30 minutes of mat Pilates. No need to watch the clock because time will fly. Nancy’s enthusiasm and upbeat programming will keep you laughing and entertained as you melt inches and relieve stress. Why not take a chance. Be brave, even bold and set a goal to begin living in the skin you’ve always wanted to be in. All levels welcome. 2 Classes per week recommended. NO CLASS June 21 & 23, Make Up June 28 & 30 Instructor: Nancy Griffin Day: Tuesday OR Thursday Time: 9 – 10 a.m. Fee: $56 Member / $84 Non-Member

MEN’S ADULT VOLLEYBALL A drop-in format. Meets on Thursdays from 6:30 – 9 p.m. through the end of May for the summer. Must be a township resident and a member of the Community Recreation Center. Coordinator: Dave Davis.

MEN’S OVER 30 BASKETBALL Drop-in program meets on Thursdays from 7 – 9 p.m. and Sundays from 1 – 3 p.m. Must be a township resident and a member of the Community Recreation Center.

FENCING – BEGINNER 1/ BASIC SKILLS 1 CLASS

CHESS CAMP (AGES 7 – ADULTS) Minimum of 6 - Maximum of 24 Meet at the Peters Township Recreation Center for chess instruction and playtime. We all like to exercise our body—how about exercise your mind? Instructions include openings, middle game, end games. This one-week camp will challenge everyone attending. Pre-registration required. Instructor: Eric Berthoud. Days: June 20 – 24 Time: 10 a.m. –12 p.m. Fee: $40 Member/$ 60 Non-Member

PHOTOGRAPHY 101 (AGES 10 YEARS – ADULT) Minimum 4 – Maximum 12 If a picture is really worth a thousand words, what do you want yours to say? This course is designed to help your photos speak by teaching you how to better use your camera, how to improve your pictures, and how to use your computer to edit your pictures and the internet to share them. Adults and teens welcome. Instructor: Melissa Robb Day: Sunday Time: 3 – 4 p.m. Fee: $55 Member / $83 Non-Member

(AGES 7 AND UP) Minimum 6 – Maximum 20 Sometimes called physical chess, fencing combines power, finesse, strategy, speed and balance to form an exhilarating sport that is enjoyable for a lifetime. The beginner class covers a brief history of fencing, teaches the proper technique, and introduces fencers to the rules, including how to compete against each other in a bout. Instructor: Three Rivers Fencing Day: Wednesday Time: 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Fee: $70 Member / $105 Non-Member Additional Fee: $35 paid to instructor for equipment rental

FENCING – BEGINNER 2 CLASS (AGES 7 AND UP) Minimum 6 – Maximum 20 For fencers who have passed Beginner 1 Class test. This class takes the basics learned in the Beginner Class and expands the options for fencers wanting to know more. This class includes an introduction to electric fencing, and will conclude with a mini tournament for participants during the last class. Instructor: Three Rivers Fencing Day: Wednesday Time: 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. Fee: $70 Member / $105 Non-Member Additional Fee: $35 paid to instructor for equipment rental

CHESS (AGES 6 AND UP; ADULTS WELCOME) Minimum 6 – Maximum 20 Meet at the Recreation Center for Chess instruction and playtime. Instructor: Eric Berthoud Day: Wednesday Time: 6 – 7 p.m. Fee: $30 Member / $45 Non-Member Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 23

Reading, Rec & More

PROGRAMS FOR AARP DRIVER SAFETY COURSE Maximum 25 per class ATTENTION ALL DRIVERS 50 OR OLDER, Peters Township Parks & Recreation, in conjunction with AARP is offering two versions of the Driver Safety Program Class. Four hours in one day session, is for those who have taken the course previously, you must present a copy of the certificate issued showing your completion of the previous course. Classes held in the

Peters Township Community Room, 200 Municipal Drive, (located at side entrance to the police station.) Register at the Peters Township Parks & Recreation Center or call 724.942.5000. TWO DAY CLASS (Those that have not taken the class within the past three years must attend this class) Day: Monday, April 25 and Tuesday, April 26 Time: 8 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

ONE-DAY CLASSES AND E V E NT S CONTAINER GARDENING Don't have much time or space and would like to grow flowers and vegetables. Come and see how easy it is to produce container gardens. Instructor: Master Gardener Date: Saturday, May 21 Time: 10 - 11 a.m. Fee: $10 Member / $15 Non-Member

THE JOYS OF CULINARY HERBS Culinary Herbs: explore the world of these amazing plants. Learn how to plant them... how to use them.. and how to preserve them. Instructors: Lois Raphael and Tina Martin Date: Saturday, June 11 Time: 10 - 11 a.m. Fee: $10 Member / $15 Non-Member

GASTRIC LAPBAND HYPNOSIS SURGERY Commonly referred to as lap band therapy mind works. Learn how to use, cognitive behavior therapy, NLP or neuro ligulstic programming hypnosis to reduce your desire for unnecessary food. Learn how to eat with intention and attention. Imagine your stomach the size of a ping pong ball. Know that you have the ability to make fantastic changes in your health and appearance. This is an informative talk for those interested in weight reduction. Introduction to Stomach/reduction mind works. Instructor: Lois Reich Day: Saturday, May 7 Time: 3 – 4 p.m. Day: Sunday, May 22 Time: 3 – 4 p.m. Day: Wednesday, June 8 Time: 7 – 8 p.m. Day: Sunday, June 12 Time: 3 – 4 p.m. Fee: $30 Member / $45 Non-Member

You must attend both days to receive certification Fee: $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-members (checks made payable to AARP) FOUR HOUR CLASS Day: Thursday, April 28 Time: 8 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Fee: $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-members (checks made payable to AARP) Deadline to register for both classes: April 11

25TH SENIOR GAMES (AGES 50 AND UP) Come out and celebrate the 25th year of the Senior Games, opening ceremonies start at 9:30 a.m. Olympic-style competitions to follow and a Prime Time Health Fair, entertainment, food booths and bingo start at approximately 10:15 a.m. Co-sponsored by Southwestern Pa Area Agency on Aging. Day: Tuesday, June 14/Peters Township High School Time: 9:30 a.m. Fee: $1 per person to compete in games/no fee to attend.

SILVERSNEAKERS® I – MUSCULAR STRENGTH & RANGE OF MOVEMENT (AGES 65 AND OVER) Have fun and move to the music through a variety of exercises designed to increase muscular strength, range of movement, and activity for daily living skills. Handheld weights, elastic tubing with handles, and a ball are offered for resistance; and a chair is used for seated and/or standing support. Free to select Medicare/Local health care plan qualified participants. Instructor: Suzie Bode Day: Monday, Wednesday and Friday Time: 10 – 10:45 a.m. Fee: $80 Member / $120 Non-Member (Fee, if not covered by Health Insurance)

CARD GROUPS AT THE CRC 500 BID Card Players meet the 4th Tuesday afternoon of the month at the community center from 1 – 4 p.m. Drop-ins welcome. No preregistration required. Men and women of all ages are welcome. Beverages and snacks are provided. Donations welcome. For more information call Rae Helman at 724.941.1081. 24 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

Peters Township

MATURE ADULTS TM

SENIOR LUNCHEONS/PICNICS (AGES 55 AND OVER) Bring a covered dish and enjoy some long overdue conversation. The senior lunches are held on the second Wednesday of the month and are open to anyone over the age of 55. A covered dish is requested to enjoy with others. Luncheons are held in the Community Recreation Center multi-purpose room from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. and picnics are held in Peterswood Park, Shelter #4 (starting in June) from 4 p.m-6 p.m. Co-sponsored with the Area Agency on Aging. No Fee. April 13: noon – 2 p.m. – Get your blood pressure taken and have some ice cream while enjoying a brief presentation from Southern Care. May 11: noon – 2 p.m. – Mon Valley Hospital will speak on the IRG facility and services available to residents of Peters Township and surrounding areas. June 8: 4 – 6 p.m. – “Tailgate in the Park.” We will be tailgating in the park so wear your favorite team jersey as we fire up the grill for the first hot dogs of the season. (In case of inclement weather, picnic will be held indoors.)

LAUREL HIGHLANDS DINE-A-ROUND TRIP Your first stop will begin Jennerstown at the Coal Miner’s Café and B&B for a breakfast treat. You will continue on the Lincoln Highway to Ligonier. Here you will stop at the Ligonier Tavern, a turn of the century Victorian home in Ligonier for your first course, soup and salad. Time will be given to browse the shops on Main Street in Ligonier. Your next stop will be Laughlintown at the Ligonnier Country Inn for our entrée. This lovely inn was built in 1924. Board the coach as we continue to Mt. Pleasant where we will stop to shop at L.E. Smith Glass and Lenox Glass Outlet. Our final stop of the day will be in Scottdale at Miss Martha’s Tea Room and Gifts where you can eat your dessert while enjoying the ambiance of the elegant Victorian tea room. Further details to follow… Save the date! To sign up for our trips, please visit the Peters Township Recreation Center to fill out a registration form and make payment, or call 724.942.5000 for a registration form to be mailed. Registration and payment must be received in order to be confirmed for the trip. Day: Thursday, July 28 Fee: $90 per person Registration Deadline: Thursday, June 2

VENETIA COMMUNITY CENTER ANNUAL OPEN HOUSE Join us for a fun filled day of Arts, Craft and Vendors with many items on display. Also we will be offering Bingo games, fun and food throughout the event. All are invited especially all alumni of the Venetia Elementary School. Held at the Old Venetia Elementary School, 800 Venetia Road, Venetia, Pa 15367 Day: June 11 Time: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

DOG OBEDIENCE CLASSES PERFECT PUPPY CLASS: TRAINING THE FAMILY DOG Requirements: All puppies must be in good health and have up-to-date vaccinations. Vaccination records and a current health certificate from a veterinarian MUST be presented at the first session. Class is designed for puppies between 10 weeks and 5 months of age who have had no previous training. Experts agree that the first months of life make up the most important time in your puppy’s physical, intellectual and social development. Learn to safely and humanely introduce your puppy to the leash, and basic obedience commands. Learn safety with dogs in the home, proper nutrition, grooming. Housebreaking and crate training will be discussed, and puppies will be introduced to clicker training. Managed puppy play sessions are included. Instructor: Deborah Miller-Gurchak Dates: Thursdays, May 12 – June 16 (6 one-hour classes) Time: 7 – 8 p.m. Fee: $90 Residents / $135 for Non-residents, for a six-week course. (Fee covers one dog and one handler.) Location: Community Room, 200 Municipal Drive, in the back of the Police Station (off of McMurray Road, near the library)

PUPPY/DOG BASIC OBEDIENCE PART 2 Requirements: All dogs must be in good health and have up-to-date vaccinations Puppies and dogs 6 months of age and older that have participated in a puppy or Part 1 course class are ready for this class. This course is designed to encourage dogs and handlers to work as a team, with the dog owner as leader. We will be instructing the skills of heeling with your dog and just going for a leisure walk in the park. Training the stay command, reviewing past skills and showing the positive effects play-training can have with your companion will be introduced. Dates: Thursdays, May 12 – June 16, 2011 (6 one-hour sessions) Time: 8:15 – 9:15 p.m. Instructors: Deborah MillerGurchak and assistant Kelly Pontiere Location: Community Room, 200 Municipal Drive, in the back of the Police Station (off of McMurray Road, near the library)

www.peterstownship.com 724.942.5000 Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 25

Reading, Rec & More Peters Township Public Library 616 E. McMurray Road McMurray, PA 15317 724.941.9430 www.ptlibrary.org

Taste of the Township

Closed: Friday, April 22; Sunday, April 24,

•

Library Hours Monday – Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday (Sept.–May)

9 a.m. – 9 p.m. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. 12 noon – 4 p.m.

eReaders are Here!

Sunday, May 29 (start of closed Sundays in summer)

•

Monday, May 30, 2011

As a new service, the library is now offering 18 Pandigital Novel eReaders for circulation. Each eReader comes preloaded with more than 25 eBooks to choose from, including adult, young adult, and children’s titles. An instruction manual is included with each device. To check out an eReader, patrons must be at least 18 years of age, have a valid Peters Township Public Library card, a valid Photo ID, a valid credit card, and sign a borrowing agreement. eReaders may be checked out for two weeks. Due to limited quantity, only one eReader may be checked out per family. See the circulation desk staff to check out a device and try eReading!

Scott Blasey Live at the Library

Sunday, May 15, 2011, 7 p.m.

Friday, April 29, 2011 7 - 11:30 p.m. Valley Brook Country Club Cost: $50 per ticket

Mark your calendar to reserve this date for an evening of fabulous food and an opportunity to reconnect with friends and neighbors! Tickets are available at the library’s circulation desk. Proceeds benefit the Peters Township Public Library. 26 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

Peters Township

Scott Blasey is the lead singer, songwriter and guitarist for the Pittsburgh based rock band The Clarks. He will appear for a family-friendly special solo “after hours” concert in the library’s main lobby. In addition to his success with The Clarks, Scott has found an audience for his solo work. He’s released three solo CD’s, including “Don’t Try This at Home,” “Shine,” and, in 2007, “Travelin’ On.” Don’t miss this opportunity to hear a terrific local talent! Register by emailing programs@ptlibrary.org or at the circulation desk.

www.ptlibrar y.org 724.941.9430

Reading, Rec & More

National Library Week April 10 – 16, 2011 Create Your Own Story @ Your Library! Celebrate National Library Week at the Peters Township Public Library with special events for all ages. On April 10 from 1 – 2:30 p.m. the library will welcome Tracie Yorke, artistic director, choreographer and national/ international dance artist. Yorke will present a program entitled The Spirit of Carnival, highlighting the costumes, music and history of the carnival celebration. This Commonwealth Speakers presentation is a program of the Pennsylvania Humanities Council, supported in part by National Endowment for the Humanities and its We the People initiative. The Pennsylvania Humanities Council, a nonprofit organization, inspires individuals to enjoy and share a life of learning. The Children’s and Young Adult Departments will each sponsor a “Let’s Read a Ton of Books” contest with opportunities for prizes just for reading (adults may participate too!). Check in each department for more details.

THE LIBR ARY: YOUR PASS PORT TO THE WORLD!

2011 SUMMER READING PROGRAM 9 weeks, June 20 – August 19, 2011

Need a little fun in the summer sun? Join us at the library – your passport to the world! Summer 2011 is all about travelling around our great, grand, glorious, ginormous globe! Sign-ups begin at our Kickoff Party June 4, 11-2. Learn about the programs, get your reading folders to earn special prizes, play games, taste treats, and sample some of the awesome cultures and amazing places we’ll visit this summer! Summer Reading lasts for nine weeks from June 20 - August 19, concluding with a special “Souvenir Shop” for all our participants! Your summer of discovery and adventure begins when you pick up your passport at the library! Sign up for the K-6 Summer Reading Program starting June 4 at the Peters Township Public Library. Note: There is a $5.00 fee to help cover the cost of materials, payable upon sign-up. Globe Trotters! Entering Kindergarten – grade 2 Thursdays, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. or 1 – 2 p.m. Planet Passengers! Entering grades 2 – 3 Wednesdays, 1 – 2:30 p.m. Worldwide Wanderers! Entering grades 4 – 6 Fridays, 1 – 2:30 p.m. Ask at the Teen Desk for summer programs for grades 6 and up! For more information and to learn about other new programs, visit us on the web at www.ptlibrary.org or stop in the Children’s Department any time. Thanks to the Friends of the Library for their support of the summer reading program. Ask about how you can join the Friends and help support your library. Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 27

Reading, Rec & More SUMMER PROGRAMS FOR YOUNGER CHILDREN (9 weeks, June 21 – August 20)

Residents sign up beginning May 9 / Non-Residents—May 16

Book Babies

Preschool Story-Time

Paws for Reading

Ages: Birth – 12 months with an adult Day/Time: Mondays, 10 – 10:20 a.m. You can’t start too early at the library! In this 20-minute program, babies will gain contact with language through stories, songs, rhymes, and finger plays, helping them take their first steps toward a lifetime love of books and reading.

Ages: 3 ½ - 5 Day/Time: Tuesdays, 11 – 11:45 a.m. OR 1 – 1:45 p.m. They’re almost ready to read on their own—help them get there with this parent-optional preschool story-time. Stories, games, activities, movies, crafts and more make this 45-minute program a big hit.

Ages: Grades 1 and up Day/Time: Saturdays, April 9, May 14, 10 – 11:40 a.m. Come into the library, curl up with a canine companion, and…you guessed it, read! In this returning program, children in grades 1 and up can visit with a registered therapy dog at the library to gain extra selfconfidence and fluency by spending time reading to these attentive animals. Call or stop in to sign up for your 20-minute time slot.

Mother Goose Story-Time Ages: 12 – 24 months with an adult Day/Time: Mondays, 11 – 11:20 a.m. They’re just learning to talk—give them something to talk about! Twenty minutes of books, fun rhymes, songs and finger plays encourage language growth and love of reading.

Toddler Tales Ages: 2 – 3 ½ with an adult Day/Time: Tuesdays, 10 – 10:30 a.m. They can walk, they can talk—and they can learn! This 30-minute program adds crafts and fun to stories for further encouragement on the way to becoming lifelong readers.

Tiny Tunes Toddler Ages: 2 – 3 ½ with an adult Day/Time: Wednesdays, 10 – 10:30 a.m. A fun, casual program of playing with and learning about music. Every week explore a different theme and way to make music with your toddler.

Art Through the Ages

Bodies in Motion Ages: 2-5 with an adult Day/Time: Mondays, 1 – 1:30 p.m. OR Wednesdays, 11 – 11:30 a.m. Have fun and keep fit at the library! A 30-minute program filled with wiggling, giggling, jiggling fun!

For Grades One and Up… Fans of Fantasy Book Club Ages: Grades 4 - 8 Day/Time: Thursday, April 28, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Fans of fantasy get together for a fun-filled night of games, snacks, prizes, crafts, movies, and much more! We’ve already traveled through the lands of Inkheart, Eragon, Narnia, Spiderwick, Ember…and beyond. Join us as we meet once a month to talk about the new books we’ve read and what we will read next.

Ages: Grades 2 and up Day/Time: Thursdays, April 7, 14, 21, 28, 4:30 – 5:15 p.m. Explore Art through the Ages with hands-on crafts! Take home a new project each week and impress your family and friends!

Girls’ Night Out

Peters Township

For All Ages Movie Night Ages: For kids and parents of all ages! Day/Time: Monday, April 11, 6 – 8 p.m. Feature: The Chronicles of Narnia: the Voyage of the Dawn Treader (rated PG for some frightening images and sequences of fantasy action). It's movie night at the library! Bring your whole family and watch terrific new release movies. We'll provide the popcorn and candy – you don't even have to buy tickets! What could be better? Just bring a sleeping bag or stuffed animal friend. See you at the movies!

Ages: Girls Grades 4 - 8 and their moms Day/Time: Monday, May 2, 6 – 8 p.m. It’s a girls’ night out! All mothers, grandmothers, aunts, and daughters are invited to meet once a month—just us girls! Enjoy reading together, watching chick flicks, and sharing in this special book club!

Cowboys (and Cowgirls!) Story-Time

Chinese Language for Children

Easter Story-time and Egg Hunt

Ages: 2nd – 8th grade Day/Time: Saturdays, June 4 – 25, 10 a.m. – 12 noon Cost: $48 Instructor: Barbara Chen, M. Ed. (native Chinese speaker) This class is designed for children who are interested in learning Chinese. This program is

Ages: For kids and parents of all ages! Day/Time: Tuesday, April 19 OR Thursday, April 21, 6 – 6:45 p.m. Celebrate Easter with a special story-time followed by our very own Easter Egg Hunt!

www.ptlibrar y.org 724.941.9430 28 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

focused on basic expressions, Pinyin (phonics), basic vocabulary and Chinese cultures. Beginners are welcome. Register at the library's circulation desk.

Ages: For kids and parents of all ages! Day/Time: Tuesday, April 12, 6 – 6:45 p.m. Yippee ki yay! It’s the best of the west at our Cowboys and Cowgirls Story-time! Giddyap on in for rootin’-tootin’ crafts, stories, and more.

ART PROGRAMS Colored Pencil Drawing Ages: 4-6 Day/Time: 4 weeks, April 5 - 26 Tuesdays, 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. Limit: 12 children Cost: $13 plus supplies Ages: 7 – 13 Day/Time: 4 weeks, April 5 – 26 Tuesdays, 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. Limit: 15 children Cost: $15 plus supplies Students will learn basic techniques with colored pencils. Register at the library’s circulation desk; please see supply list when registering.

Chalk Pastels and Conte Crayons Ages: 4-6 Day/Time: 4 weeks, May 3 - 24 Tuesdays, 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. Limit: 12 children Cost: $13 plus supplies Ages: 7 – 13 Day/Time: 4 weeks, May 3 - 24 Tuesdays, 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. Limit: 15 children Cost: $15 plus supplies Students will learn basic techniques with chalk pastels and conte crayons. Register at the library’s circulation desk; please see supply list when registering.

YOUNG ADULT PROGRAMS Programs for Tweens and Teens in 6th – 12th grade unless otherwise noted; please register at the Teen Desk unless otherwise noted.

In addition to “Let’s Read a Ton of Books,” the Young Adult Department will have the following special programs in honor of National Library Week: UnPlug & Play Day/Time: Wednesday, April 13, 6:30 – 8 p.m. Celebrate the start of National Library Week by turning off your TV, cell phone, computer and video games and play board games with your friends in the Teen Reading Room. Play a game in the library’s collection or bring one from home to share. Light refreshments will be served.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Movie Screening Day/Time: Friday, April 15, 5:30 – 8 p.m. All Ages Welcome! Join us for a very special After Hours screening of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part I. Popcorn will be served and we will watch the movie on our big screen! Don’t forget your wand.

YOU ARE HERE! 2011 SUMMER READING PROGRAM FOR TEENS 9 weeks, June 20 – August 19, 2011

School’s out, the sun is shining and the snow has finally melted. This means it’s time for the 2011 Teen Summer Reading Program! Get your passport ready, because summer 2011 is all about adventures around the world! This year our theme is “You Are Here” and for nine weeks, from June 20-August 19, we will have awesome programs including gaming tournaments, book clubs, movie nights and a unique craft experience every Friday from 1:30-3:30 p.m. for our “Teen Trekkers.”

Our summer will conclude with a special event and an amazing prize for one lucky winner. Sign-ups begin at our Kickoff Party, June 4th, during which we will have music, games, crafts and food as well as prizes for our first 100 teens to sign up. Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 29

Reading, Rec & More

YOUNG ADULT PROGRAMS Programs for Tweens and Teens in 6th – 12th grade unless otherwise noted; please register at the Teen Desk unless otherwise noted.

TOURNAMENTS

ON-GOING PROGRAMS

Mario Kart!

Anime Club

Ages: All Ages are Welcome! Day/Time: Saturdays, April 16 and May 14, 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. (Please arrive at 11:30 a.m. to check in) Cost: $2 entrance fee Start your engines and join us in the Teen Reading Room to show off your racing skills to all your friends. Each participant will have the chance to race once, and the top two winners will move onto the final three qualification rounds.

Day/Time: Fridays, January 7 – May 20, 3 – 5 p.m. Join us in the Teen Reading Room to celebrate your love of all things Anime and Manga. We’ll discuss and watch the latest trends in comics, DVD’s and magazines. All otaku are welcome!

Afternoon Movie & Munchies Day/Time: Thursdays, April 7, May 12, 4 – 6 p.m. Need a break from class and homework during the school year? Then join us for a relaxing afternoon of movies and munchies in the Teen Reading Room!

SENIOR SPACE Senior Advisory Council Meetings Day/Time: Thursdays April 7, May 5, 6 – 7 p.m. Seniors, we need your help! In late 2010, the library received a $4,000 LSTA grant to create a space and develop programs and resources specifically for our 55+ population. Join our Advisory Council and help us decide the best way to utilize our new Senior Space.

Teen Crafternoons Day/Time: Wednesdays, April 27, May 25, 3:30 – 5 p.m. This spring, flex your creative muscles in the Teen Reading Room. Join us monthly for a unique and fun craft experience!

After Hours Movie Night Day/Time: Friday, May 6, 6 – 8 p.m. (Teen Room is open from 5 – 8 p.m.) All Ages Welcome Love going to the movies, but hate paying full price for a ticket? Then join us monthly in the Teen Reading Room to watch a movie and have popcorn, FREE OF CHARGE! For your convenience, the Teen Room will remain open after hours, from 5-8 p.m.! Call the Teen Desk or check our website to see what movie we’re showing each month.

PROGRAMS Readers’ Theater Day/Time: Thursdays, April 21, May 19, 3:30 – 5 p.m. The Young Adult Department is calling all future actors for our winter Readers Theater program. Join us monthly to act out a play complete with costumes in the Teen Reading Room!

Cinco de Mayo Fiesta Day/Time: Thursday, May 5, 3:30 – 5 p.m. Join us for an afternoon fiesta celebrating Cinco de Mayo! We’ll have food, a craft and a movie based on the holiday. Olé!

Peters Township

Day/Time: Saturday, April 9, 11 a.m. Join us while we formally unveil our Senior Space in the library. We will have a special ribbon-cutting ceremony and entertainment!

Youth Advisory Council Meetings Day/Time: Sunday, May 8, 3 – 4 p.m. Do you have ideas about how to improve the Young Adult Department? Are there programs you'd like to see offered or titles you'd like to see added to our collection? Join us in the Teen Room and we'll discuss your ideas and how to make them happen. All teens interested in participating in the Council are welcome to join.

Culinary Creations Day/Time: Tuesdays, April 5, May 10, 3:30 – 5 p.m. Join us after school to make delicious treats in the Teen Reading Room. We’ll make pizza, candy sushi and much, much more!

www.ptlibrar y.org 724.941.9430 30 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

Senior Space Ribbon-Cutting

Wii Sports for Seniors Day/Time: Mondays, 10:30 a.m. - 12 noon Seniors, do you love to golf, but don't want to deal with the weather? Maybe you were a bowler, but your arthritis keeps you from lifting the ball. Stay active in the comfort of the Peters Township Public Library. We'll use the large plasma TV and Nintendo Wii in the new Teen Reading Room to stay fit. Join us and learn to play Wii Sports! Bring a friend or two and give it a try! No registration required -- just drop in!

ADULT PROGRAMS

For all free programs, please register at the library’s circulation desk, by telephone at 724.941.9430, online at the library’s website (www.ptlibrary.org) through EventKeeper or by email at programs@ptlibrary.org (please include name of program, name of participant, and phone number). For those programs with fees, registration must be completed in person at the circulation desk; registration is not complete until payment has been received.

World Affairs Program Day/Time: Monday, April 25, 7 – 8:30 p.m. The library will be welcoming Dr. Lawrence Orb, who will be speaking on “Defending America on a Balanced Budget: is it Possible?” Dr. Korb is a Senior Fellow at the Center for American Progress, a senior advisor to the Center for Defense Information and an adjunct professor at Georgetown University.

Western PA Mushroom Club Day/Time: Tuesdays, April 26, May 24, 6 – 8 p.m. The Western Pennsylvania Mushroom Club was created to promote the enjoyment, study, and exchange of information about wild mushrooms. Everyone who has an interest in wild mushrooms is welcome to become a member. Activities include regular meetings, projects centered on mushrooms, and walks and forays. Participants are invited to attend one meeting at no cost, after which, if they are interested in joining, they must submit a yearly individual membership fee of $15 or a family membership fee of $20. Members must also annually sign a release of liability form. To learn more about the Western PA Mushroom Club, go to www.wpamushroomclub.org

Preparing Your Estate Plan Day/Time: Wednesday, April 27, 7 – 8:30 p.m. Presented by: Ben Lodico, Financial Advisor Do you know where your assets will go when you die? If not, this seminar will help familiarize you with the basic steps of estate planning, including the function of a will and the different types of trusts. An attorney will be present at this event to help answer questions.

Veterans Administration Aid and Attendance Pensions: a Hidden Source of Funding Long-Term Care Day/Time: Tuesday, May 3, 7 – 8 p.m. Presented by: Joseph Scott McCarthy, MBA, RRT There are billions of dollars in VA pension benefits, but many disabled wartime service veterans and surviving spouses may not know how to take advantage of them. Author Joseph Scott McCarthy reveals the secrets to the money set aside for long-term care for those who served our country. The pension can pay for assisted living, nursing home care, and nonmedical home care which can be the difference between living a safe, dignified life or struggling at home. A guidebook, Checks for Vets, will be available for purchase and contains samples of all the forms needed, step-by-step directions, and tips for successfully filing a pension claim.

KenKarta: Battle of the Onoxmon Book Launch Party! Day/Time: Friday, May 13, 4 – 7 p.m. KenKarta: Battle of the Onoxmon, a novel written by local author Alison Kartevold for her daughters, is making its national debut. Join us to help celebrate this momentous event with entertainment, music, prizes and refreshments. Book will be available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting the library. The author and her co-creators will be on hand to sign copies.

Roll It, Take It, Leave It, Move It: Know Your Employer Retirement Plan Options Day/Time: Tuesday, May 10, 7 – 8:30 p.m. Presented by: Ben Lodico, Financial Advisor If you recently switched jobs or retired or are facing unemployment due to a layoff or downsizing, this seminar can help you determine what to do with the assets in our employer-sponsored retirement savings plan. We’ll help you evaluate your retirement goals and potential strategies and understand tax consequences, and then we’ll discuss the pros and cons of your options.

Alison Kartevold is an award-winning journalist with a career that has spanned 25 years and five countries. She has made documentaries for PBS and worked as a producer and reporter for Network News outlets such as NBC, ABC, and CBS.

Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 31

Reading, Rec & More

ADULT PROGRAMS (CONTINUED)

Connecting with our Invisible World: An Introduction to Psychic Abilities and Mediumship Day/Time: Monday, May 16, 7:30 – 8:45 p.m. Presented by: Dr. Debbie Pakler In this workshop, Dr. Debbie Pakler will give a brief a history of mediumship and some basics of the development of psychic abilities. She will challenge you to discuss and discover your own abilities while sharing her own experiences that led her on a spiritual path from traditional believer and metaphysical skeptic to Psychic Medium. She will demonstrate psychic abilities and mediumship by giving spirit messages to some audience members. As someone with the combined talents of a public speaker, teacher, counselor and Psychic Medium, Debbie presents this topic in her own unique way - with enthusiasm, warmth, knowledge and humor. Come with your questions and an inquiring mind and enjoy yourself as we ‘connect with our invisible world.’ Dr. Pakler is a Certified Psychic Medium and Counselor through the Arthur Ford International Academy of Mediumship at Delphi University. She holds a Ph.D. in Comparative Religions and master’s degrees in Counseling, Social Work and Metaphysical Studies.

ARTS PROGRAMS

ON-GOING PROGRAMS

Beading Club

Afternoon Book Club for Adults

Day/Time: 3rd Wednesday of the month, 6 – 8 p.m. Ages: 12 and up Facilitator: Karen Krohner of Beads 2 Wear Join us for an evening of beading, work on an existing project, or begin a new one in the company of fellow beaders. Beginners and experienced beaders welcome. Bring your supplies and a small task light, if you have one. Additional supplies and tools will be available for purchase. A monthly project will be planned. Participation in project optional.

Day/Time: 3rd Wednesday of every month, 1 – 2:30 p.m. Upcoming titles: April 20: The Nine Tailors by Dorothy L. Sayers; May 18: Three Daughters of Madame Liang by Pearl S. Buck.

Introduction to Crochet

Mystery Book Club for Adults

Day/Time: 4 weeks, April 4 - 25; May 2 - 23 Mondays, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Cost: $30 per 4-week session (includes a start-up kit with crochet hook and yarn) Maximum: 6 Instructor: Cathy Layton Join us for a 4-week class to learn the basics of this old, now-new-again art of crochet. We’ll enjoy learning about the originality of this craft and see how to use it in decorative and creative ways that are limited only by your imagination. It’s not just about afghans!

Day/Time: Last Wednesday of every month, 1 – 2:30 p.m. Do you love mysteries? So do we! That’s why the library has started its first ever Mystery Book Club. Upcoming meeting dates: April 27: Aphrodite by Russell Andrews; May 25: Burglars Can’t Be Choosers by Lawrence Block.

GO GREEN CLUB GO Green Club Day/Time: 3rd Monday of the month, 7 – 8:45 p.m. The PTPL GO Green Club is growing and thriving! Our mission statement is “to provide the community with educational resources through programs, library materials, and volunteer activities to help create a more environmentallyfriendly and responsible lifestyle.” Check the library website for upcoming GO Green programs/activities and join us at our next meeting in the Conference Room on the second floor of the library. For more information or to join the club please email caweaver@ptlibrary.org or call 724.941.9430.

Evening Book Club for Adults Day/Time: 2nd Wednesday of every month, 7 – 8:30 p.m. Upcoming titles: April 13: Half-Broke Horses by Jeannette Walls; May 11: People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks.

Coupon Club Day/Time: 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month, 6 – 8 p.m. The PTPL Coupon Club meets at the library to share coupons and to discuss money saving strategies for groceries and much more! Please sign up for the club at the circulation desk or call 724.941.9430. Questions about the club? E-mail ptplcouponingclub@gmail.com.

Cooking Club Day/Time: 1st Thursday of the month, 7 – 8:45 p.m. (April 7: Brunch/Egg Dying, May 5: Mexican/Cinco De Mayo) Cost: $5 per meeting (collected at each meeting) to defray the cost of food samples and plates/utensils. Are you interested in trying a new cuisine or healthier recipe options? Do you want to learn new techniques or where to shop for that hard to find ingredient? The PTPL Cooking Club meets for the members

www.ptlibrar y.org 724.941.9430 32 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

Peters Township

ADULT PROGRAMS (CONTINUED)

to share their knowledge about various cuisines with others in the club, to discuss cooking trends, and share food samples. Participants must register for the upcoming meeting one week in advance so that enough food can be purchased/prepared for all to sample. Questions? Please email the club at ptplcookingclub@gmail.com

Adult Writing Workshop Day/Time: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of every month, 6:30 – 9 p.m. Leader: Linda Folz Are you passionate about writing and looking for someone to critique your work? If you would like to give and receive inspiration, motivation, and encouragement in a group atmosphere, consider

C O M P U T E R

joining the Adult Writing Workshop. Adult writers of all skill levels and genres are welcome. Please register for this program at the library’s circulation desk or call 724.941.9430.

Writer’s Workshop Day/Time: Mondays, 7 – 9 p.m. OR Wednesdays, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Cost: $20 per month The Writer’s Workshop meets weekly at the library and focuses on writing for children and teenagers. Anyone with an interest in this area is encouraged to attend. Both fiction and non-fiction are welcomed as well as work for the magazine or book market industry.

P R O G R A M S

All computer classes require a $5 fee (unless otherwise noted), and require basic mouse and keyboarding skills. There is a limit of 12 students per class, unless otherwise noted.

Powerpoint Presentations Day/Time: Tuesday, April 12, 7 – 8:45 p.m. Learn how to prepare slide presentations using different themes and layouts. Then add text, drawings, charts, photos, clip art, and word art.

Social Networking on the Internet Day/Time: Tuesday, April 26, 7 – 8:45 p.m. Learn how to communicate faster with your friends, family and workmates using Internet technology. We’ll cover blogs, Twitter and Facebook.

Producing a Newsletter Day/Time: Tuesday, May 3, 7 – 8:45 p.m. Learn how to produce a slick newsletter for your group using MSWord. Includes how to set up columns, include photos, artwork and tables.

Basic Excel Spreadsheets, part 1 Day/Time: Tuesday, May 10, 7 – 8:45 p.m. This class covers creating an Excel spreadsheet, printing a range, customization, working with rows and columns, and data validation.

Basic Excel Spreadsheets, part 2 Day/Time: Tuesday, May 17, 7 – 8:45 p.m. This class covers compatibility issues and quick review, using formulas, functions and dressing up a spreadsheet. Basic spreadsheet data entry skills are required.

Cover Letters & Resumes Day/Time: Tuesday, June 7, 7 – 8:45 p.m. This hands-on course will teach students how to use Microsoft Word on a PC to prepare professional looking cover letters and resumes. The purposes and various formats of each will be covered. Please note: there is no charge for this class.

Books to Go: eBooks & eAudiobooks Day/Time: Tuesday, May 24, 7 – 8:45 p.m. Limit: 25 There is no charge for this class. Join us for a demonstration of how to use the library’s Digital Media Collection to download eBooks and eAudiobooks to various electronic devices.

Protecting Your Computer Day/Time: Tuesday, May 31, 7 – 8:45 p.m. Limit: 25 A menagerie of software is trying to hurt you through your computer. They do everything from destroying your hard drive to stealing your identity. Learn how to fight back. This presentation covers viruses, Trojan horses, worms, spam, pop-ups, and spyware.

Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 33

Ad-Case

34 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

Peters Township

As the school year comes to a close, it is only natural for kids to look forward to the leisurely nature of the summer season. The arrival of beach trips, pool parties and sleepovers, however, doesn't mean that children should depart completely from their daily routine. Keeping particular elements of a child's day consistent throughout the summer months keeps the brain focused and helps prevent learning losses during the summer. In addition, this can potentially ease the anxiety that often accompanies transitioning into a new classroom or school come fall. According to research conducted by the National Center for Summer Learning, which is based at the Johns Hopkins School of Education in Baltimore, Maryland, summer learning loss accounts for about two-thirds of the difference in the likelihood of a student pursuing a college preparatory path in high school. As these findings indicate, keeping children's brains challenged throughout the summer is crucial, since the lack of learning that occurs during these months has both short-term and long-term consequences. And, brain growth is 90% complete by age 10 in most children. Keeping your child challenged in these early years can make a difference in the rest of his/her lives. Routine provides structure, which is often lacking during the summer months when children all too quickly become detached from the lessons they learned throughout the school year. Maintaining a schedule throughout the summer supports an environment that is less of a contrast to the classroom and provides a healthy balance between building skills, play and rest. Families can incorporate the following habits into their child's day to encourage and maintain a routine throughout the summer season: To the best extent possible, children should adhere to a regular bedtime each night and wake up at the same time each day. This will not only ensure proper rest but will establish a sense of discipline as well. Upon waking up, it is important that children brush their teeth, get dressed and perform any other hygienic tasks that they normally would before a school day. Allowing kids to stay in pajamas or dirty clothes longer than necessary can result in lazy behavior. Keeping a child on a consistent meal schedule is critical to maintaining a sharp body and mind. Establish specific times for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and sit with children at the table to encourage conversation while eating.

Asking a child to help around the house is an ideal way to get them involved in a daily routine. A morning chore and an afternoon chore can convey a sense of responsibility and supply a sense of rhythm to the day. In addition to providing consistency, routines can present children with security and comfort as they adjust to the changes that come along with their new summer schedules. The purpose is not to create rigidity but to provide a flexible structure that establishes a sense of purpose kids need to grow and mature. Finding a preschool/early childhood center that runs their program year round can be very beneficial in this regard. The very best early childhood centers also offer summer tutoring for elementary school students. If you are looking for such programs, make sure they are facilitated by degreed teachers as well as tailored to meet the specific needs of your child, whether it be concentrating on advanced or remedial material. It also can be helpful that the tutoring is intertwined throughout the center’s program, so the children readily accept the “summer challenge.”

If a child partakes in a scheduled nap time while at school, then he or she should be allotted time at home for regular rest as well. Make this time consistent, perhaps after lunch, and have the child rest in the same place everyday. This Industry Insight was written by Bob & Lori Santo. Bob & Lori Santo are the owners of The Goddard School®, located at 825 East McMurray Rd. in Peters Township. Goddard offers both full- and part-time Infant/Preschool/K programs. For more information, visit www.goddardschools.com or call 724.941.6464. Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 35

Drive to Stay Alive Teaches Young Drivers Skills E veryone who gets behind the wheel has to pass a driver’s test and most take some sort of driver’s education course to prepare for that test. But what about the situations that don’t arise in a textbook or on a controlled course? That’s where Drive to Stay Alive comes in. The Drive to Stay Alive program involves the Peters Township Police and Fire Departments, as well as the Peters Township VFW Ambulance Service and volunteers from the PTA and several local business people. This group is involved from the planning and fundraising to the implementation of the program. Several years ago Dr. Timothy Skraitz went to Chief Harry Fruecht of the Peters Township Police Department with the idea for this

36 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

program. Since then, Dr Skraitz and the Public Safety Departments from Peters Township have provided this program to township students. This year the program is expanding to include Washington County and the surrounding areas. The behind-the-wheel training includes braking skid and recovery, swerve to avoid, slalom/steering, tailgating, and an impaireddriving simulation. This is where the students put to use what was learned in the classroom. Each student drives the course at least twice, but experiences the same course as a passenger several more times. This is what gives them some real life situations that will help them become better, safer drivers on the road. Chief Fruecht said the skills learned are some that students wouldn’t otherwise develop until they eventually ended up in a crash. “These are avoidance skills—how to avoid a collision; how to handle a braking situation, and react to the brake lights of drivers,” Fruecht said.

Peters Township

“The course will give them an advantage on the street.” This year the course will also address texting and driving, something that is becoming a serious problem among younger drivers. Fruecht said that within the last two weeks, a Peters Township resident was sideswiped by a younger driver who was texting at the time of the accident. “The kid’s head was down, looking at the phone, and by the time he looked back up, it was too late,” Fruecht said. The Drive to Stay Alive course also includes a DUI simulation vehicle by Volkswagen that gives drivers a taste of how out of control a vehicle is when the driver is inebriated. The cost for the training is free and is provided by law enforcement agencies and donations from local businesses and organizations. “Students register at their school. We have

Photos by Michael Haritan Photography

Beyond Driver’s Ed nine different districts this year and have broadened the range of the program. It will be held at Consol Energy Park in North Franklin, where there is a bigger lot that gives us the opportunity to do bigger things,” Fruecht said. “There will be a limited number of participants, and it will be first-come, first-served, as far as registration.” This year’s program will be held on May 14. Police departments prefer to do the training prior to the prom season so that prom-goers get that extra training in before their big night. Fruecht said that one of the most interesting things he’s seen regarding the trainings is the reaction of students whose parents force them to take the course. “You can tell who’s there because of their parents. Their expressions give them away,” he said. “Those same kids will tell you that it’s the neatest experience that they’ve had. That’s one of the cool things. They actually get turned around.”

Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 37

The Railr oad Club

: A Safe

Place for

By Jamie Ward

years ago, David Stanton, a police officer with the Peters Township Police Department, wanted to give kids a safe place to come and be themselves. Today, he has helped over a hundred kids. It all started when Stanton got a phone call from an area parent with a son who was going though some tough times and looking for some help. Through talking with them, Stanton got the idea to start building

38 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

plastic models of boats, cars, planes and of course trains. The Railroad Club was born and the group started to meet at Hobby City; then six years ago, moved into the Venetia Community Center, where they meet now. They meet every Wednesday afternoon. “We have kids from third grade and older involved,” says Stanton. “Some play sports, some don’t; it’s a real variety of kids.” This group of kids come to work on different train layouts. According to Stanton,

Peters Township

Kids to G

row

they are working on an N-skill layout now, a 21’ x 31’ foot layout of the Montour Railroad, that they have been working on for five years now. They have finished a few layouts already, an HO and O gauge, which is what you would see running around a Christmas tree. They are smaller layouts and take about a year to complete. Stanton says the kids really like to run the trains, but at the club they get to do a little bit of everything. “The kids do everything from putting the wood together, to building the layout, the track, and starting the scenery,” he says. “A lot of the kids have an interest in model building. In the past, parents have told me that the kids love using the tools and designing displays as well; it’s really all encompassing.” The hands-on work is what makes the club really unique, according to Stanton, whose favorite part of the club is working with the kids. “I like seeing them succeed, learn and grow as people,” he admits. “I just got a call from a former group member who wants to come back and visit, it’s really nice.”

The group doesn’t have any restrictions on age, and Stanton has had adult volunteers, parents, and people who just like trains, come to help. Currently, the Railroad Club has five members, but in the past has had as many as 13 at one time. Over the 15 years that the club has been around, Stanton says he’s seen it really evolve. “This is another positive alternative to getting involved in negative behavior, whether its drugs or something else. It’s important to understand what this came from,” he says. “It’s just a safe place for them, we have rules and there is no messing around. There is structure to it but they get to create and that’s the best part about it.” The club holds open houses at least once a year, and then around Christmas, for people in the community to come in and take a look at what they have done. The next open house will be at the community center on June 11 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information about the group, call David Stanton at 724.942.5017.

Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 39

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Peters Township

SPRING 2011

Health and Wellness News You Can Use

Healthy Family, Happy Family

What’s Inside page 2

A Clean Sweep Make fire safety a focus of your spring clean-up projects

page 3

From Gut-Wrenching Pain to Hope for the Future Stomachaches: When to Worry

Keeping yourself and your family healthy can seem like a full-time job.

page 4

Good Night, Sleep Tight! Are You Allergic to Your Bed?

With UPMC HealthTrak, you now have a convenient way to manage your health anytime and anywhere.

page 5

UPMC HealthTrak Lets You Manage Your Health Care Online

page 6

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Could It Happen to You?

page 7

Urology 101 UPMC Mercy Emergency Department Project Advances

A Clean Sweep Make fire safety a focus of your spring clean-up projects

Consider these potentially lifesaving tips from UPMC Mercy’s Trauma and Burn Center, which recently earned prestigious verification by the American Burn Association and the American College of Surgeons. Spring is a great time to clean up around the house — inside and out. It’s also a great time to do a fire safety check and simple spring cleaning to help make your home safer. “Most home fires and burn injuries can be prevented,” says Jenny A. Ziembicki, MD, medical director of the UPMC Mercy Trauma and Burn Center. “Too often, we see children scalded by bath water that’s too hot, people with painful inhalation burns caused by mixing cleaning products, or deaths in homes with no working smoke alarms.” About 300 people are admitted to UPMC Mercy each year for treatment of burn injuries. Nearly one out of three of those burn patients is under the age of 15. UPMC Mercy is designated as a Level I Regional Resource Trauma Center by the Pennsylvania Trauma Systems Foundation. “We were the first burn center in Pennsylvania and the 17th in the country when we opened in 1966,” Dr. Ziembicki says. “Today, we’re the only center in the region with Level I trauma and comprehensive burn capabilities under the same roof.”

Dr. Ziembicki advises families to reduce the risk of fires and burn injuries in their home by following these simple spring cleaning tips: • Check carbon monoxide and smoke detectors, replace the batteries, and vacuum away any dust or debris. • Set your water heater to 120 degrees. Consider using a bath thermometer, especially if you live with young children, the elderly, or diabetics. • Clean out your basement and garage. Properly dispose of any oily rags, and empty paint or aerosol cans. Recycle unnecessary papers and boxes. • Clean out lint build-up in your clothes dryer vents, exhaust ducts, and behind the dryer. Remember to clean the screen/filter after each use. • Read instructions carefully when using cleaning products. Mixing solvents can produce toxic fumes that can burn eyes and airways. • If you have children, look for any evidence they’ve been playing with matches.

• Don’t fire up that propane grill until you check for leaks and cracks, and signs of blockage from insects, spiders, and food grease. • For charcoal grills, use only charcoal lighter fluid, and never add any lighter fluid or other flammable liquids after igniting. • Place your grill away from railings, high traffic areas, windows, heating/air conditioning units, or places with high/dead vegetation. • Make sure all family members know how to respond to a smoke alarm alert. Choose a meeting place such as a tree, light pole, or mailbox that is a safe distance from your home in the event of a fire. • Make an escape plan. Draw a floor plan of each level of your home and discuss it with all members of your household. For more information, contact the Hydrotherapy Department at UPMC Mercy at 412-232-8794.

Did You Know? • Across the nation, someone dies in a fire every 175 minutes, and someone is injured in a fire every 31 minutes.

• Approximately 85 percent of all U.S. fire deaths occur in homes.

www.UPMC.com/Today

• A residential fire occurs every 84 seconds. • Every day, 435 children from infancy to age 19 are treated in emergency departments for burn-related injuries, and two children die as a result of being burned.

• Nearly two-thirds of reported home fire deaths occurred in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms. Sources: National Fire Protection Association and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

From Gut-Wrenching Pain to Hope for the Future UPMC’s Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Center wields a powerful “triple threat” against IBD: Groundbreaking immunology, genetics research, and innovative clinical care. The primary goal of drug therapy is to reduce inflammation in the intestines. Medications include anti-inflammatory drugs; antibiotics to kill germs in the intestinal track; probiotics to restore good bacteria; corticosteroids to provide short-term relief during flare-ups; and immunosuppressants.

At age 23, John Oliver* is feeling better about the future. Free from the gutwrenching pain of Crohn’s disease since a second bowel surgery in 2008 — this time followed by a promising new treatment developed at UPMC using biologic-based drug therapy — he is now making plans to attend medical school next fall. “I think the medicine is working. It’s the best I’ve felt and the best I’ve looked,” says John, who earned his biomedical engineering degree from Carnegie Mellon University and a master’s degree in engineering management from Duke University. His gastroenterologist, Miguel Regueiro, MD, clinical head and codirector of the UPMC Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center, says the future has never looked brighter for IBD patients. “Ten years ago, a diagnosis of IBD was devastating. Now, we have new medicines, a greater understanding of the disease, and better research,” he says.

IBD: Who’s at risk? Nearly two million Americans live with IBD, which is not to be confused with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBD involves two chronic diseases that cause inflammation of the intestines: ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Symptoms include abdominal cramps and pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and bleeding.

Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the small and large intestines, while ulcerative colitis affects the large bowel alone. IBD cuts across all ages, genders, and ethnicities, but generally affects Caucasians ages 15 to 35. While the exact cause is not known, experts believe IBD involves a compromised or overactive immune system. Because IBD may run in families, doctors also believe genetics plays a role. While stress and certain foods do not cause IBD, both can make symptoms worse.

Treatment According to Dr. Regueiro, drugs cannot cure IBD, but they can be effective in reducing the inflammation and accompanying symptoms. While some patients have mild symptoms requiring little medication, others have more debilitating flare-ups, and some patients have severe problems requiring surgery and even transplants.

In addition, the IBD Center recently developed a Visceral Inflammation and Pain (VIP) Center to help patients deal with both the physical pain and emotional stress of coping with IBD.

Exciting breakthroughs The latest generation of drugs, called biologic therapies, are proving very effective in inducing remission so that patients can lead normal lives. At UPMC, doctors took this approach a step further — as in John’s case — by prescribing biologic drug therapy after performing surgery to remove the damaged section of the intestine. In use now at other hospitals, this treatment has reduced the recurrence of Crohn’s disease in patients by nearly two thirds. * John Oliver’s treatment and results may not be representative of similar cases.

Stomachaches: When to Worry Everyone gets a stomachache — or abdominal pain — from time to time. Most stomachaches are harmless conditions caused by overeating, gas, or indigestion. But they can point to more serious medical problems, says Ragunath Appasamy, MD, PhD, chief of gastroenterology at UPMC Mercy. “Most people know when a stomachache is simply a stomachache,” says Dr. Appasamy. “However, if the pain is different — something unusual for you — it’s time to call your doctor.” There are many potential causes of abdominal pain, explains Dr. Appasamy. “It’s important that patients contact their primary care physician if mild stomach pain lasts more than six hours or continues to worsen, or if the pain is accompanied by other symptoms.”

Get immediate medical help if: • You have abdominal pain that is very sharp, severe, and sudden. Pain located on the lower right side of the abdomen can mean appendicitis. • You also have pain in the chest, neck, or shoulder. Some heart attacks and pneumonias can cause abdominal pain. • You’re vomiting blood or having bloody diarrhea. • Your abdomen is stiff, hard, and tender to the touch. • You can’t move your bowels, especially if you’re also vomiting. The bottom line: Trust your gut! Contact your doctor if you’re concerned about lingering or unusual stomach pain.

1-800-533-UPMC

Health Tips from UPMC Health Plan

Good Night, Sleep Tight! Are you among the millions of Americans suffering from lack of sleep? If so, droopy eyelids, wide yawns, and low energy are the least of your worries. Sleep disruption — not sleeping enough or sleeping poorly — can affect your memory, disease resistance, and leave you struggling to stay alert in school, on the job, and on the road. Studies show that people who get the appropriate amount of sleep on a regular basis also tend to live longer, healthier lives than those who sleep too few or even too many hours each night. So, what is a good night’s sleep? According to the National Institutes of Health, most adults need seven to eight hours of sleep a night. School-aged children and teens need at least nine hours of sleep each night. Tips to help you sleep • Stick to a sleep schedule. Get up about the same time each day, no matter how many hours of sleep you got the previous night. • Maintain healthy sleep habits. Go to bed only when you’re sleepy. Make sure your bedroom is quiet, dark, and relaxing — not too hot or too cold. Don’t text, e-mail, read, or watch TV in bed. • Make sure your mattress is comfortable. Remember, even a good quality mattress needs to be replaced within 10 years. • Exercise is great, but not too late. Avoid exercising within a few hours before bedtime. • Avoid caffeinated drinks after lunch. The stimulating effects of caffeine in coffee, colas, teas, and chocolate can take as long as eight hours to wear off. • Avoid large meals at night. A large meal can cause indigestion that interferes with sleep. • Avoid alcoholic drinks before bedtime. While a nightcap may help you relax, alcohol keeps you in the lighter stages of sleep and tends to wake you during the night. And, for adolescents and young adults: • Avoid stimulating activities around bedtime. This includes intense studying, text messaging, video games, and lengthy phone conversations. • Avoid pulling “all nighters” during exams. • Sleep in on weekends — but not more than two to three hours past your normal wake time. Sleeping longer may disrupt your body clock. Find a more complete list of the benefits of good sleep at www.UPMC.com/Today.

AreYouAllergic toYour Bed? The dust in your bedroom might be making you sick. Dust mites, and dander, and fibers — oh my! These are just some of the microscopic menaces in ordinary house dust that can cause health problems. Dust mites are a common cause of allergies and asthma. It’s not the dust mite itself that can make you sick; it’s the dust mite debris (the mite’s feces and decaying body). Dust collects in every room of the house because it is easily trapped in linens, upholstery, carpets, and draperies. But the bedroom is a favorite habitat for dust mites because it provides a warm, humid environment, and plenty of food (dead skin from humans and pets).

Five ways to help wipe out dust mites While you can’t completely eliminate dust mites, these simple steps may help reduce their numbers: 1. Cover your mattress and pillows in dust-proof or allergen-blocking covers, and encase box springs in vinyl or plastic covers. 2. Wash and dry bed sheets, pillowcases, blankets, curtains, and bedcovers weekly in hot water (140 degrees). If bedding can’t be washed, put the items in the dryer set at a high temperature for 20 minutes. 3. Vacuum carpeting and upholstery weekly. Using a HEPA-filter vacuum can help keep dust from floating back into the air. 4. Use a damp cloth or mop to remove dust from hard surfaces and exposed floors. This will prevent dust from becoming airborne and resettling. 5. Keep the indoor temperature at 70 degrees and humidity at no more than 50 percent. Dust mites aren’t the only puny pests that can invade your bedroom. Bed bugs have made a comeback in recent years. For tips on ways to avoid a bed bug infestation, visit www.UPMC.com/Today. Sources: National Institutes of Health, Environmental Protection Agency

www.UPMC.com/Today

UPMC Spotlight

UPMC HealthTrak Lets You Manage Your Health Care Online

Keeping track of health issues, test results, and medications is challenging for Sandy Hogue*, who is disabled and chronically ill. Because she must rely on cabs for transportation, seeing a primary care doctor can be an all-day affair. That’s why she was eager to sign up for UPMC HealthTrak, an Internet-based service that enables patients to receive and manage information about their health. Sandy uses it to monitor her glucose and high cholesterol levels, check test results, make appointments, renew prescriptions, and diagnose medical conditions — all from the comfort of her home in Westmoreland County. “It’s a good system. I get the medical treatment I need faster without spending a day traveling around,” says Sandy. “It keeps me in contact with my doctor and helps me monitor my medical conditions. And if I have anything contagious, like the flu, it prevents me from infecting other people.” More patients choosing HealthTrak Approximately 42,000 UPMC patients have signed on to HealthTrak, which gives them secure electronic access to their medical records, medications, and other information. HealthTrak recently was expanded to include eVisits — an online digital house call — with a primary care physician. * These patients’ treatments and results may not be representative of similar cases.

During an eVisit, patients select a symptom and complete an interactive questionnaire. A UPMC doctor then reviews the information and makes a diagnosis. If medication is needed, a prescription can be sent electronically to the patient’s pharmacy.

“HealthTrak is great for college students who are far from home, the elderly, and other people who have trouble getting to the doctor. It doesn’t take the place of going to the doctor for regular check-ups, but it’s very useful,” Robin says. “If only UPMC could figure a way for me to see my dentist online!”

Oakmont resident Mark Gleeson* uses HealthTrak primarily to keep track of his medical records. In October, when the computer-savvy 83-year-old came down with a cough and cold late in the day, he decided to “see” a doctor via eVisit. Within an hour of completing the questionnaire, a UPMC doctor responded with medical instructions and a prescription for his sinus infection and chest congestion. “It was so convenient, and it worked! Within three days, I felt good as new,” Mark says. Convenience and comfort As a graduate student, Robin Sales* relied on HealthTrak to connect with her hometown doctor while attending school in Nevada. Now a young professional living in New York City, she continues to use the online service for eVisits, to fill prescriptions, and access her medical records.

UPMC HealthTrak Benefits Manage your health from home with HealthTrak. Here’s what you can do online: • Send a message to your doctor • View medical records and test results

“It’s comforting. Having easy access to a doctor back home gives me the chance to find the right doctor for me locally, without rushing into it. It’s one less thing to worry about,” she says.

• Renew prescriptions

Robin, who first used eVisit to consult a doctor about an eye infection, says the online questionnaire asks the same questions the doctor would ask at an appointment. When she needs medicine, her doctor in Pittsburgh faxes the prescription to her New York drug store two minutes away.

• Ask billing questions

• Track current health issues such as glucose levels and blood pressure • Request appointments • “See” a doctor (digital house call) For more information or to sign up, visit www.UPMCHealthTrak.com.

1-800-533-UPMC

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

Could it Happen to You? Most of us associate post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with returning military veterans who have experienced the tragedy of war. But you don’t have to be a soldier to undergo the intense feelings of helplessness, horror, and fear that characterize PTSD. Imagine being in a terrible car accident on your way to the mall. For days and weeks afterwards, you constantly relive the accident in your mind. You take a different route to shop and, worst of all, your body won’t let you relax. You can’t sleep — and when you finally do doze off, you’re awakened by nightmares. You can’t concentrate, your heart pounds, and you break out in cold sweats. “We know that anyone who has undergone some kind of trauma can be at risk for post-traumatic stress disorder,” explains Anne Germain, PhD, associate professor of psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Based at Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic of UPMC, she currently leads several sleep research projects with returning veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan who have PTSD. PTSD can be triggered by a single event you’ve experienced or even witnessed — be it an accident, violent crime, or natural disaster — or by ongoing trauma, such as child abuse or domestic violence. When we experience a life-threatening event, it’s normal for our body to react with a powerful, stressful response; it’s what enables us to fight or flee. “But for some people, these symptoms persist and worsen,” says Dr. Germain. “The toll can be profound if symptoms are ignored. PTSD has a devastating impact on the lives of people who have it — and on those around them. It also has enormous financial and economic implications.”

Did You Know? UPMC's Sleep Medicine Center — accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine — is the only multidisciplinary sleep medicine facility in western Pennsylvania. The center performs approximately 2,000 sleep studies annually for adult patients with all types of sleep disorders. The staff at the UPMC Sleep Medicine Center include board-certified physicians, certified nurse practitioners, and registered sleep laboratory technologists. To schedule an appointment, call 412-692-2880.

www.UPMC.com/Today

PTSD is a relatively new specialization in psychology, and experts are still trying to determine why it affects some people and not others. Fortunately, for most people, the symptoms of PTSD begin to ease in about a month. “If they continue, it’s extremely important to seek professional help,” notes Dr. Germain. “The best place to begin is to talk with your family doctor and seek a referral to a qualified psychologist or psychiatrist.”

PTSD and sleep disorders Among the most troubling aspects of chronic PTSD for patients are the recurring nightmares and insomnia it can bring. There is growing evidence that such sleep disorders have a direct impact on both a person’s mental and physical health. Individuals with PTSD often say they have problems falling or staying asleep, and that the sleep they get isn’t refreshing and restorative. “Our sleep research studies with veterans show that they have many more sleep disorders than the general public, including sleep apnea and other breathing problems,” notes Dr. Germain. With PTSD, nightmares can become an ingrained behavior, affecting a person’s daytime functioning — from faltering concentration and poor memory, to emotional outbursts. “By stopping the nightmares and helping to make sleep more normal, restful, and restorative, patients can overcome other aspects of chronic PTSD in their lives a bit more easily. And sleep can be improved in a matter of weeks,” she says. Dr. Germain uses several methods to treat PTSD-related sleep disorders, including image reversal therapy. “We help patients replace a recurring nightmare with a more positive, affirming dream. They write it down and rehearse it several times a day to train the brain to have a new dream image.” Individuals interested in participating in Dr. Germain’s sleep research studies for military veterans are invited to call 412-246-6404 or visit www.veteranssleep.pitt.edu.

Urology 101 From prostate cancer to kidney stones, here’s a quick crash course about your urologic health. “Out of sight, out of mind.” That’s how most of us regard our urinary tract — until we’re jarred from a sound night’s sleep by the sudden urge to urinate, or pass a painful kidney stone. These are just two of the many conditions diagnosed and treated by urologists, physicians who specialize in the medical care of the male and female urinary tracts (comprised of the kidneys, bladder, urethra, and ureters), and the male reproductive system. Today’s television commercials may help build public awareness of urological problems like incontinence and impotence. But many people — particularly men — remain steadfastly embarrassed to talk about such issues with their family doctor.

And while urologic problems can happen at any age, they increase as we grow older. Among men over age 50, prostate cancer is a particular concern. “It’s the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men in the United States,” explains Dr. Benoit. He advises men ages 50 to 75 to undergo an annual prostate exam and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. “If you have a family history of prostate cancer, or are of African-American heritage, you’re at higher risk and should begin annual screening between the ages of 35 and 40.”

“It’s important to be proactive and take a preventative approach when it comes to your urologic health,” advises Ronald Benoit, MD, director of general urology and clinical vice chair, Department of Urology at the University of Pittsburgh. “For example, research shows that erectile dysfunction can be a sign of an underlying medical problem, such as cardiovascular disease.”

Conditions Treated by Urologists

What can you do to stay healthy? “Simply put, live a healthy lifestyle. It’s easy to say, but hard to do,” acknowledges Dr. Benoit, who recently moved his practice to UPMC Mercy. “Eat a heart-healthy diet, avoid too much alcohol, don’t smoke, and exercise regularly — and your whole body benefits.”

• Erectile dysfunction

Your family physician will typically refer you to a urologist for treatment of the following conditions: • Cancers of testicles, prostate, penis, bladder, kidneys, or adrenal gland • Enlarged prostate • Male infertility • Painful bladder syndrome

• Prostatitis • Pelvic organ prolapse • Kidney stones • Urinary incontinence • Urinary tract infections • Urinary retention

UPMC Mercy Emergency Department Project Advances Work on a major $21.3 million expansion and renovation project at UPMC Mercy’s Emergency Department (ED) is humming along with finishing touches scheduled for completion by late fall. Thomas Gronow, executive director of UPMC Mercy’s Emergency, Trauma, and Burn Services, says the project — which began in February 2010 and has been conducted in phases to minimize disruption — is “on time and running smoothly.” “We are pleased to be able to continue providing exceptional care to our patients during this exciting time of transition,” Mr. Gronow says.

Other recent improvements include: • Fifteen newly renovated treatment bays (another 21 are planned). • Two dedicated, state-of-the-art trauma resuscitation bays will be added for the most acutely injured patients. • An innovative ‘Super Track’ design that offers speedy care for patients with minor injuries and illnesses needing less urgent care. • A new 128-slice CT scanner added last year offers the latest imaging technology with faster scanning capability. • An expanded patient and family reception area to provide comfort to families of patients during treatment. By the time the project is completed, 11 beds will be added to the ED.

1-800-533-UPMC

UPMC Mercy 1400 Locust St. Pittsburgh, PA 15219

UPMC Today is published quarterly to provide you with health and wellness information and classes and events available at UPMC. This publication is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice or replace a physician’s medical assessment. Always consult first with your physician about anything related to your personal health.

Follow UPMC on Facebook.

The name you trust in women’s health is right here at Mercy. UPMC Mercy ob-gyn services are growing to provide comprehensive women’s services by bringing you the same experts who practice at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC. In addition to community-based physicians and midwifery, these expanding services for women are consistent with Mercy’s rich tradition of care. UPMC’s complete range of specialty services for women covers obstetrics and gynecology, maternal-fetal medicine, midlife health, women’s cancer, and much more. From checkups and preventive care to testing, diagnosis, and advanced treatments, the superb doctors, nurses, and caregivers at Mercy and Magee are with you every step of the way on the path to good health. We work closely with your primary care physician to provide seamless care. And every service is backed by UPMC’s world-class care, providing peace of mind when you need it most. To learn more about UPMC Mercy ob-gyn services or to schedule an appointment, call 1-800-533-UPMC (8762), or visit UPMCMercy.com.

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Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 49

Ali Jacobs and Doug Maronde

Matt Cheran and Barbara Deliere co-hosted the event.

Ryan Minteer

Carlee Smith and John McGovern

The daunting task of finding that perfect prom gown was made a little easier for those who attended the P.T. Prom Fashion Show on Saturday, March 19, hosted by the P.T. Thespian Troupe no. 185. More than 50 gowns were modeled by some of Peters Township High Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s senior and junior girls representing various school sports, clubs and organizations. The gentlemen could also check out all the latest fashions in formal wear. Many different tuxedoes were modeled by some of P.T.'s most dapper young men. Matthew Cheran, P.T. Middle School social studies teacher, and Barbara Deliere, P.T.H.S. Spanish teacher, co-hosted the event. Many local vendors also had booths at the show where students could shop for all their prom needs. Proceeds from the fashion show are used towards activities and scholarships for the P.T. Thespian Troup no. 185.

To see more photos, go to www.facebook.com/ICMags

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While prom is a singular event, there is So when it comes to finding thatElizabeth perfect Luttner hope for the dress after it’s over for those dress and getting your hair done just so, a and little planning can go a long way towards Steve Smith who can’t justify spending that kind of money making the difference between a night that’s on a dress meant to be worn one time. Lementowski said that many women use mediocre and a night that’s magical. the dress after prom to wear to weddings. Jenn Lementowski, co-owner of Reflect, “Depending on what type of dress they a women’s boutique in Settler’s Ridge in get, a lot of people may cut it and make it Robinson, said that this year’s fashions will be a lot of the tried and true that proms have into a shorter dress and get it tailored,” Lementowski said. “That’s what I’ve been known for in the past few years. seen, mostly.” “There will be a lot of patterns As far as hairstyles go, John Gamble and a lot of basic silk dresses with Kara Hunter and of John andHardy Kern beading and rhinestones,” Lementowski TaylorEdwards Laster Color Design said this season’s special said. “Those have always occasion hairstyles will be a been popular, and they’ll tip of the hat to the 1970s. be popular this year as “We predict this well.” spring’s special occasion Lementowski, who hairstyles will be attends national fashion somewhat reminiscent shows with her business of the ‘70’s, with a partner, Kristy Picard, fuller, more romantic said that the duo is silhouette,” Gamble sad. bringing long and short Kaitlyn “Although the smooth, dresses to market this Corbett and sleek looks we’ve been year. But, because of David Bayani doing in recent years the popularity Lindsay will still be around, of the short dresses, the Allen we’re definitely seeing long dresses will only a trend towards texture be offered in two sizes. and fullness and Lementowski said expect that to carry that prom shoppers over into this year’s will want to allow prom season.” time for proper Meredith Karavolis Gamble also and fitting and alterations, Corywill Portz said that color be so waiting until the last “multidimensional,” and minute should Marissa the trend is toward softer, not be an option. McKnight and more natural hair. Regardless of where Becca Lee Connor Page No matter where you they go to shop, get your dress, or do your Lementowski said that hair, make sure you plan ahead people should plan on and make your appointments spending between $300 for fittings and stylings early. and $500 on the dress, As prom creeps up – and it will be here depending on the level of detailing and before you know it – knowing that you’re material. “It is a pretty big expense, but I’ve booked for hair, nails, and fitting will noticed that people are willing to spend that take several layers of stress off of you much on a prom dress,” Lementowski said, so that you have more time to plan that “especially if their daughter’s a senior. after-prom party! I have seen people spending anywhere from $500 to $600 on a dress.” Angela Mikec

Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 51

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Deborah Dears (Women Etc) and Joe Masterangelo (Hawthorne Woods) Theresa Zamagias (event coord.), Suzanne Caplan (Women Etc. President), Deborah Dears (Odyssey Hospice) and Betty Karleski (Jewish Association on Aging).

Women Etcetera

Lynne Cramer (Zumba Instructor), Ann McQuinn and Karen Klein (South Fayette Curves)

Wise women learn about care: giving it to those we love and getting the right care for ourselves. This was the name and focus of the Women Etcetera Event held on Saturday, Feb. 26 sponsored by Dr. Mike Hanlon of Lifestyle Health Group. The panel for the event included members of Women Etcetera as well as representatives from Odyssey Hospice, The Jewish Association on Aging and Hawthorne Woods. Giant Eagle's dietitian and wellness coach as well as other local professionals and vendors were also in attendance. Women Etcetera is an organization for women over 50 which provides information, tools and connections for a â&#x20AC;&#x153;full life experience.â&#x20AC;?

Dr. Mike Hanlon and Patty Antol

Photos by Debbie Mountain

Paulette Messino (Giant Eagle) and Marianne Skiba

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Zumba demonstration Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 53

Homes Marketed by Northwood

E. Washington Boro 245 N. Wade Avenue – $144,900 Jodie Gallagher – 412.370.9930

N. Franklin Township 1747 Ridgewood – $195,000 Judy and Doug Smith – 412.583.3603

Upper St. Clair 311 Alamo – $235,000 Patrick Shepard – 412.979.8687

South Fayette 1840 Mayview Road – $575,000 Janet Sember – 724.747.1193

North Strabane 1286 Meadowbrook Drive – $129,900 Janet Sember – 724.747.1193

City of Washington 31 E. Katherine Avenue – $89,900 Denise Levi – 724.554.6025

Canton Township 737 McKee Road – $249,900 Jodie Gallagher – 412.370.9930

Upper St. Clair 2279 Lambeth Drive – $158,500 Jeff McCartney – 724.255.1258

McDonald 120 Fannie Street – $85,000 Joyce Miller – 412.310.3617

Canonsburg 229 Taylor Drive – $99,900 Susan Accetta – 412.953.0686

Canonsburg 249 N. Central Avenue – $109,000 Denise Levi – 724.554.6025

Canonsburg 226 Hooks Lane – $173,995 Sue Muse – 412.398.3444

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Planning an Outdoor Oasis R E A L E STAT E

f it’s time to think about making some improvements or additions to your home, outside may be the best place to get started. Exterior additions and improvements are high on homeowner’s lists, according to the Better Homes and Gardens 2011 Consumer Preference Survey. Among the top ranking features people want in their next homes are decks or patios (84 percent), and low-maintenance exteriors (79 percent). When it comes to the top ranking living spaces people want, outdoor grilling or living areas come in at 67 percent. So whether you want to make some improvements for selling your home, or just to enjoy for yourself, the planning experts at Fiberon, makers of innovative composite decking, railing and fencing products, have some tips to help you plan the perfect outdoor oasis. Define the Space. An outdoor room could be the entire yard, or just a small part of it. Think about it having walls, a ceiling and flooring, just like an indoor room. • Walls are vertical elements that help define a space, such as hedges, trees, lattice screens, raised garden beds, railings, a gazebo or fence to frame your space. • Ceilings provide shelter and shade. Think of awnings, umbrellas and pergolas. Or use what’s naturally there, like the branches of a shade tree. • Flooring could be the existing lawn, a mulched pathway or a created floor such as a concrete or flagstone patio, or deck.

PETERS TOWNSHIP

(Family Features)

deck adds versatility and beauty that you can customize to meet just about any need. And it can pay, off, too. Composite deck additions are among the projects that recoup the most of their cost upon home resale, according to the Remodeling Magazine 2009-10 Cost vs. Value Report. • When planning a deck, don’t make the mistake of building one that’s too small. Mark the area you want to use, then put your outdoor furniture in it to see if you have the space you need. • Use an online planning tool to explore designs, materials, colors and accessories. • Be sure to check on local building codes and permits needed before starting any construction.

• Sound – Add pleasing audio with outdoor stereo sound systems, trickling water features or even just simple wind chimes. • Color – Garden art, tablescapes, container plantings and fabric can put colorful finishing touches on your outdoor room. To use a free, online Deck Designer, and to learn more about Fiberon outdoor products, visit www.fiberondecking.com.

Fire and Food. Use your outdoor room any time of day by planning a place to cook and eat. • An outdoor kitchen can be as simple as a portable grill or as elaborate as your budget will allow. A DIY pizza oven can also be a fun way to enjoy cooking outside. • Fireplaces, fire pits and chimineas bring coziness along with great function – and they help extend the outdoor enjoyment in cooler weather. Accessories. Just like indoor room, outdoor rooms benefit from appropriate accessories. Make sure you plan for them in your budget as well as in your designs. • Lighting – Landscape lighting, lanterns, candles or strings of white outdoor lights can all add beautiful ambience.

Decide the Elements. Once you know where your oasis is, it’s time to figure out what needs to go in it. Here are some elements to consider: Decking – A lowmaintenance composite Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 55

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Tips for using portable generators (Family Features)

hen a storm knocks out the power, many homeowners turn to a portable generator to keep the lights on or the furnace running when cooler temperatures hit. While portable electric generators are very useful for temporary power, they can be dangerous if used incorrectly. The most common dangers involving generators are carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, electrical shock or electrocution and fire hazards. The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) and Reliance Controls are warning homeowners about the hazards of improperly installing and operating portable generators. • Never use a gasoline-powered generator inside your home or garage. Generators can produce high levels of carbon monoxide very quickly, and opening doors or windows or using fans will not prevent CO build-up. Always use a portable generator outside and locate it away from opened windows or doors. Use CO detectors to monitor levels. • Make sure generator fuel is stored safely, away from living areas and fuel-burning appliances, and in properly labeled containers. Before refueling, turn off the generator and let it cool down. • Check extension cords before using – they should be rated for the load, free of cuts or worn insulation, and have three-pronged plugs. • Do not overload the generator. Use it only when necessary to power essential equipment or appliances. Do not connect generators directly to your household wiring without an appropriate transfer switch being installed. A transfer switch is an electrical device that is permanently installed near the service panel in your home. It prevents the utility power and the generator power from powering your household circuits at the same time. A transfer switch also eliminates the possibility of backfeeding, which is when generator power travels back up the utility service line. Backfeeding can result in fires and serious injury or even death to you, utility workers or electricians working on nearby electrical systems. “Transfer switches have been around a long time, but we find that a lot of people still don’t know what they are, or they don’t think they’re necessary,” said Jeff Flegel, with Reliance Controls Corporation, the first company to put its user-friendly transfer switch concept on the market. “A transfer switch is easy to install, can spare a lot of heartache and is an essential safeguard to protect families and property.” The National Electrical Code®, (NEC®) which sets national standards intended to minimize the possibility and effects of fire and other risks, requires that transfer switches be used with all portable generators supplying alternate power to a home or business. “This is the time of year when many people rely on portable generators for their homes, and many times they’re putting themselves at risk by not installing or using the generator properly,” said Brett Brenner, President of the Electrical Safety Foundation International. “People are in such a hurry to keep the heat, lights and television on, the refrigerator running, or the basement’s sump pump operating, they don’t think about the potentially devastating consequences of hooking up a generator incorrectly.” For more on transfer switches and generator safety, visit www.transferswitches.com.

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eters Township

Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 57

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How to Keep them Away!

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Key Fact:

Germs

When you sneeze, germs can travel at 80 miles per hour across a room!

When should kids wash their hands?

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Bower Hill Students Make Special Donations to Washington City Mission Second grade students from Bower Hill Elementary made a special donation to the Washington City Mission and the Avis Arbor Women’s Shelter. On January 27, Mrs. Donna Bussey from the City Mission visited the school to receive the donation of scarves and gently used books for children at the mission and in the shelter. During their holiday party in December, second graders made two scarves – one for themselves and one for a child at the mission. Bower Hill also donated a collection of gently used books. Each child to leave Avis Arbor will be given two books of their very own to take with them as they start their new lives. A special presentation was made by the students to Mrs. Bussey on the building’s televised morning announcements, BeeTV. Mrs. Bussey also thanked the students for their ongoing dedication to the Hearts of Hope cards throughout the building. Students and staff donate change – money that is found around the school or that students have earned doing a special chore at home that benefits families at Avis Arbor.

Mrs. Bussey along with a few Bower Hill second graders wearing their scarves.

Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 59

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PTHS Students Earn Engineering and Science Honors Two teams from Peters Township High School earned honors in the Junior Engineering Technical Society (JETS) TEAMS competition. The junior varsity (9th and 10th grade students) team earned first place distinction with team members: Josh Bowman, Josh Larimer, Karan Sharma, Cheng Wang, Jake Wilhelm and Matt Perryman. At the varsity level (11th and 12th grade students), the high school team placed second overall with team members Iman Benbourenane, JingXu Yang, Kimmie Ellis, Grant Nissley, Greg Chiste and Matt Girourd. The JETS TEAMS program is an annual high school competition challenging students to work collaboratively and apply their math and science knowledge in practical, creative ways to solve real everyday engineering challenges. In addition, the High School Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science (PJAS) team took part in the regional competition and competed against students from throughout the region. Student scientists prepare for the event by using the scientific method to select a project, research it, develop a hypothesis, and come up with an experiment that will allow them to collect data to prove or disprove the hypothesis. At the competition, the students present both a written and oral report on their project. Earning first place at the event were: Jennifer Mikec (perfect score), Allison Cecelia (perfect score), Maple Chen (perfect score), Jen Cashman (exemplary award), Hannah Foster, Carolyn Grachen, Matt Stablein, Grace Brandstetter, Jessica Johnson, Cassandra Meyers, Matt Perryman, Cheng Wang, Sam Batchhelder and Iman Benbourenane. Receiving second place honors were: Gretchen Brandstetter, Natalie Krewin, Chrissy Lampert, Marisa McKnight, Mandy Nerone, Allison Resnik, Christine Dee and JingXu Yang. Both events were sponsored by High School teacher Keith Compeggie.

PTMS Students Seven students from Peters Township Middle School have qualified for the state competition in the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science (PJAS). This weekend, the Peters Township PJAS team took part in the regional competition at California University of Pennsylvania and competed against students from throughout the region. Student scientists prepare for the event

National Letter of Intent Day

HS Student Earns Math Honors Congratulations to Peters Township sophomore Cheng Wang who has qualified to take part in the American Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME) in March. Wang earned this honor by finishing in the top 5% of students across the nation who took the American Mathematics Contest 12 (AMC12). The competition was organized to recognize and reward excellence in mathematics and to help strengthen the mathematical skills of our nation’s youth. The AIME is a 15-question, 3-hour examination and the use of calculators is not allowed. Students who excel on the AIME qualify for the United States Math Olympiad.

Student athletes (l to r) Hancock, O’Connor, Jackson, Spamer and Hagman.

On Wednesday, Feb. 2, five students from Peters Township High School signed National Letters of Intent to play sports at the collegiate level next fall. Three members of the state champion girls soccer team were on hand to declare their intentions to play at the next level. Shelli Spamer will attend North Carolina State University, Shannon O’Connor will attend Long Island University, and Karen Jackson will attend Slippery Rock University. Football team members Austin Hancock and Nevin Hagman also signed letters of intent to play for Fordham University and Bucknell University respectively.

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State in May. The students are: Varun Sharma (Gr. 7), Haley Hamschin (Gr. 7), Rashmi Krishnasamy (Gr. 8), Sebastian Hymson (Gr. 8), Lily Fornof (Gr. 7), Charlie Meyers (Gr. 7) and Maria Oldenberg (Gr. 8). The PJAS team is sponsored by high school science teacher Mrs. Madhura Ranade.

McMurray Elementary Holds Annual Career Fair Students at McMurray Elementary had the opportunity to hear from 21 local professionals for the buildingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual career fair organized by counselors Brenda Gruhn and Stephanie Svilar. Fourth grade students rotated among the presentations that included a veterinarian, a chef, a federal government special agent, a news anchor, an engineer, a pilot and a voice instructor throughout the morning.

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McMurray Students Jump Rope for Heart Physical education students at McMurray Elementary focused on heart healthy skills this month and helped raise awareness and funds for the American Heart Association. In class the students participated in Jump Rope for Heart activities (jump rope, double dutch, high jump, long jump, sack races) and discussed the role of aerobic exercise in preventing heart disease. Many students volunteered to raise funds for the AHA and Jump Rope for Heart â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and overall more than $2,600 was collected. Fifth grader Amanda Kolson was the top fundraiser, collecting $285. All students who collected donations will receive a complimentary ticket to a Pittsburgh Pirates game in June from the AHA.

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Peters To wn sh ip Poli ce Spon sori ng Se con d An nual “Drug Take B ac k” Pr ogram We all have them—leftover prescriptions, painkillers from that broken arm or wisdom teeth surgery. Or perhaps it’s 20 leftover blood pressure pills from the prescription you tried that didn’t do the trick. Rather than flushing them or throwing them in the trash, where they can become an environmental hazard, local police are gearing up for the prescription take-back program this April to help you clean out your medicine cabinets. Peters Township Police Chief Harry Fruecht said the program, which started last fall, took in 50 pounds of drugs in four hours from four locations in the township. In addition, the program incorporates Meals on Wheels, which extends the program’s reach, allowing drivers to deliver forms to residents for them to complete if they have unwanted drugs. Drivers return the forms to the police, who then pick up the drugs at the residents’ homes. The program is completely anonymous, Fruecht said, with the intent being getting drugs disposed of properly, not collection of data. In fact, Fruecht said that people dropping off drugs to the collection locations should not drop them off in the prescription containers they came in. Plain plastic bags are fine. “I believe there’s a lot more out there that people would like to get rid of than we’re seeing,” Fruecht said. “Nationally, 120 tons were collected last year, and there’s a lot more out there. They want this done anonymously. The pills are not submitted in the vials. Another new aspect this year is they’re willing to take prescription liquids. The labels should be removed; they don’t want to identify anybody. The purpose is to get it off the streets.” On Saturday, April 30, collection centers will be available to anyone wishing to dispose of their unwanted drugs at the McMurray Dairy Bar, Walgreen’s and Kmart from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Expired nonprescription medications will also be accepted. Fruecht said that if that day is inconvenient for anyone, they can bring their unwanted drugs to the Peters Township Police Station between now and then during the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Fruecht said the program is becoming more popular because of the Secure and Responsible Drug Disposal Act of 2010, which came about because of prescription drugs ending up on the streets and in the environment because of improper disposal. “One of the biggest drug problems is the abuse of prescription medications, and it’s growing,” Fruecht said. “More Americans currently abuse prescription drugs than cocaine, heroin, and hallucinogens combined. Non-medicinal use of prescription drugs ranks second only to marijuana, according to a 2009 national survey on drug use and health. On top of that, by throwing them down the toilet or garbage, you’re polluting the environment. The EPA has detected pharmaceuticals in the nation’s waterways and water supply. This program disposes of them properly, with no impact to the environment.” All collected drugs will be turned over to the Drug Enforcement Agency and incinerated. Fruecht said the legislation mandates that a formal disposal regimen is to be in place within 18 to 24 months. For law enforcement officials, that deadline can’t come soon enough. “We’ve got to get as much of this stuff off the streets as possible,” Fruecht said. “Six of the top 10 drugs used by 12th-graders nationwide were prescribed or purchased over the counter.” Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 63

The Peters Township Chamber of Commerce The Peters Township Chamber of Commerce will sponsor a ‘Recognition of Excellence’ ceremony for graduating seniors on the evening of Tuesday, May 24 at the high school. These students, recommended by the teaching staff, will be recognized for their accomplishments in the areas of Academics, Leadership, the Arts, and Athletics. The Peters Chamber is also accepting applications for its 2011 scholarship program – two $1,500 scholarships toward tuition costs will be awarded to a Peters Township graduating senior. Information is available from guidance counselors at the high school – deadline is April 15. 22nd ANNUAL GOLF OUTING & FUNDRAISER MONDAY, JUNE 6, 2011 Rolling Hills Country Club Scramble Event ~ Shotgun Start 1:00 p.m. $130 per golfer 18 Holes of Golf with Cart ~ Locker Room Facilities Lunch/Dinner ~ Skill/Team/Door Prizes Call 724.941.6345 for info/registration Proceeds to benefit the Peters Township Volunteer Fire Dept.

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Peters Township

Kitchens & Bathrooms

Improvements You Can Appreciate While They Appreciate

No matter how much you paid for that new car, once you drive it off the lot, its value goes down. But if you put that same money into a kitchen or bathroom project for your home, you can actually increase its worth and recoup more than 30 percent of the investment back in some cases. You’ll also have a new, better designed and more useful space to cook in or luxuriate in every day. Laura Reid Riggin at Premier Home Design Center said that the best returns on investments are kitchens, but a lot of the returns can’t be measured in dollars. “All designs are limited by space and budget, but an easy, quick facelift can create a more modern, and cooking-friendly kitchen,” Riggin said. “Replacing counter tops is very popular, as is upgrading appliances to stainless steel. Islands are popular, so long as there’s room to accommodate them. It is important, when you’re focusing and working with an existing structure, to design for the space. It’s not so easy to go into an existing kitchen and add recessed lights, but pendant lights over an island are still a hot accessory, and easily accomplished.” Premier offers clients the ability to work with true designers, not just a person behind a computer screen with the latest home-design software package. The results are nothing short of spectacular. “It’s really important to emphasize the value of using a kitchen

designer because anybody who’s been in this business knows that there are so many ways we can help plan and help them work within budget,” Riggin said. “We’re not whipping walls out at the computer. We’re designers. You’re talking a lot of money and a major investment in someone’s home. For some people, that can be a little scary. We help them every step of the way from concept to construction.” But once you decide to call Premier, you’ll be amazed at all of the options that open up to you. Not only are kitchens born again, but bathrooms that are now blasé, can find new life through walk-in showers, luxury shower heads and body sprays, rain showers and his and hers vanities. Some clients choose to install heated floors. Riggin said the sky’s the limit. “Bathrooms typically cost more to do because of the amount of labor involved – removing old tile work, laying new plumbing,” she said. “But in the end, kitchens and bathrooms are two rooms that people spend a lot of time in, so you’re not only increasing the home’s value, you’re increasing your family’s ability to enjoy the home.” Riggin said that Premier also does work for homeowners looking to get their home ready for the market. “It’s different when you’re working with a homeowner who plans on living in the home and one who wants to update the home to sell,” she said. “Both look at the projects differently and have different budget expectations. Those who plan on living in the home after the upgrades put a lot of thought into their master baths and kitchens because their wants and needs are coming first. It’s more about creating a truly personal space, and we’ve been doing that successfully for homeowners for quite a while.” Premier Home Design Center can be reached by calling 412.276.5650. It is located at 1597 Washington Pike, Bridgeville, 15017.

Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 65

Deanna Tucci Schmitt always was on the lookout for new avenues for networking in business. So when her friend in Toledo, Ohio, invited her to a local BNI meeting, she said, “Why not?” “She was a member and kept raving about it. I went to visit her and attended a meeting, and I thought it was the best one I’ve ever seen,” she said. “I assumed I could join one when I got back to Pittsburgh, but there were none.” Now, 13 years later, BNI of Western Pennsylvania has 29 chapters and more than 700 members, thanks to Schmitt, who is the organization’s executive director in the region. It’s no surprise that the group took off like

B NI

assimilate; they get to go to a training that teaches them the basics of the 60-second presentation, how to do an effective presentation, how to structure their 10-minute presentation, and how to develop a marketing plan. We do a one-to-one, where members will meet outside of a meeting over coffee, which is especially important if I’m a chiropractor or have a gym or retail shop. I get to see exactly what you do. BNI members learn more about each other, build a stronger relationship, and learn how to refer one another. It speeds up the process for getting and receiving referrals.” Schmitt said that of the results tracked by

come in to help grow the community, and it will come back to you.” The local Peters Township BNI chapter is called Wealth Builders and meets every Wednesday at Beinhauer Community room. The Wealth Builders chapter has close to 30 local business leaders representing various industries, from Peters and surrounding communities. The Peters Chapter was founded about three years ago and is always looking for new members. If you are interested in finding out more about Wealth Builders, please go to www.bni-westernpa.com.

Brings Together Business Professionals for Success

it did. BNI is an international organization started in California more than 26 years ago. Now in 47 countries, with 5,800 chapters and more than 132,000 members around the world, BNI has been responsible for more than 6.5 million referrals totaling approximately $2.8 billion in referral business. “BNI is business-to-business and businessto-consumer referrals,” Schmitt said. “The diversity in types of businesses and individuals in BNI has been one of the things that make BNI work really well.” There are four main elements to a BNI meeting. The meetings start with open networking. Then each member does a 60-second presentation, followed by an expanded presentation by a member of the week. The final part consists of members passing referrals or giving testimonials. Fees for the group are $365 per year with a $100 registration fee. “That registration fee includes training,” Schmitt said. “New members don’t just

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BNI of Western Pennsylvania, 23,388 referrals generated $9,823,113 worth of business for the organization’s members—an average of $14,000 per member per year. Based on those results, the “40+6+4+1=51” formula was developed and is circulated throughout the group. That formula translates for laypeople to 40 members per chapter, six one-to-one meetings per month, four referrals per month per member, and one invited visitor per month equals $5,100 worth of estimated income per member through BNI. “It’s our success formula and our five-year plan,” Schmitt said. “If the chapter is using that formula, members can look forward to increasing their income, on average, by $60,000 per year. There are smaller ticket items in BNI, and there are people that have one referral a year that generates a lot of money, so it is an average. But the main point is that BNI is about building relationships—farming, not hunting. The success is built around the fact that ‘givers gain.’ You don’t come in looking to get rich quick; you

Peters Township

For more information on BNI of Western Pennsylvania, go to www.bni-westernpa.com or call 724.941.0101. New chapters are always forming.

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raig Cozza knows that biking is addictive, and he wants to do everything he can to get you passionate John F. Kennedy put it best when he about cycling, fitness, and the well being that goes said, “Nothing compares to the simple along with cycling. Not because it sells bikes, but because bikers are part of a unique community of pleasure of riding a bike.” enthusiasts who share fitness, camaraderie, fun, and because biking is “green.” Biking is great physically, mentally, and emotionally. You release your negative energy into nature, and nature recycles it, endorphins flowing. It's really tough to go on a bike ride and come back in a bad mood. Can't do it! “Biking is a no-impact sport, and the second largest sport in the USA, only second to walking,” Cozza said. “But with walking or running, there’s an impact. Runners usually become bikers because you do not get beat up from the impact. You can go out for a long, hard ride and come back with only your muscles being tired, not your joints. Our trails, single-tracks, and roads are great and growing rapidly in the Pittsburgh region.” Pro Bikes supports every organization you can think of when it comes to biking, from a multitude of charity rides like the annual Race to Anyplace, various M.S. 150's, school programs, racers and racing, fitness and fun rides, as well as every type of cycling imaginable. “We support road, mountain, trail, cyclocross, triathlons, unicycles, BMX riding and everything in between” says Cozza. “We currently support 15 plus race teams.” That support brings people back to the shop for service, fittings, bikes, supplies, and training. The success of Pro Bikes has led to the expansion of all three locations, tripling the square footage in the South Hills, Monroeville and Squirrel Hill locations. “We’ll be finished with all three of the expansions by spring, which will help us do a better job of meeting people’s needs,” Cozza said. “Our three major brands are Cannondale, Specialized, and Giant. We carry 15-plus other specialty brands. We buy and sell the best – a true pro shop for every type of riding – and we service and fit everything. We’re the fourth largest Cannondale dealer in the country. Our goal is to get more people on bikes because it is a healthy lifestyle. We can start kids as young as two on balance bikes, and fit people well past their 70s. We also help people train or find them a coach for an event if they need it.” The expanding Squirrel Hill Pro Bikes will have four floors—over 13,000 square feet—making it one of the largest in the country, offering everything biking. It will be a comprehensive, full-service bike facility with something for everyone. Pro Bikes will also be a “spin center” with focused training, coaching, and professional bike fitting. There will be a custom building and teams area, and people can sign up for maintenance and training workshops. By

spring, these amenities will be available in all locations to help even more people with anything from lubing a chain to fixing a flat to riding skills and triathlon techniques. “We’re teamed up with local coaches and can offer training and rides to help everyone accomplish their goals,” Cozza said. “Our big push is to get people out supporting charity events, races, and rides, and to keep growing fitness and cycling in western Pennsylvania.” Cozza hopes that all people will give cycling a spin and stop in to see the enthusiasm for biking that Pro Bikes and its employees can impart. “We are ‘Powered by Passion,’ because we are passionate about cycling, fitness, and well being,” Cozza said. “We’re bike people. That enthusiasm pours over, and you get hooked. It's a way of life—a really good way of life!”

a Cannondale CAAD 9 Road Bike or a Specialized Hybrid Bike. at www.ProBikesLLC.com Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 69

Cooking with Penny

ook beach en r keeps mer. In s

Asking a child to help around the house is an ideal way to get them involved in a daily routine. A morning chore and an afternoon chore can convey a sense of responsibility and supply a sense of rhythm to the day. In addition to providing consistency, routines can present childrenPhone with security in a and comfort as they adjust to the changes that come along schedules. Road takeout order at with their new summer 4080 Washington The purpose is not to create rigidity but (across to providefrom a PNC Bank) 724.942.0999 mmer flexible structure that establishes a sense of purpose kids out our menu www.eatatpennysdiner.com in need to Check grow and mature. thirds Finding a preschool/early childhood center that runs their program year round can be very beneficial in this regard. The very the Early best early childhood centers alsoBird offer Special m and summer tutoring for Monday through Friday elementary e 10 in school students. If you are 6looking a.m. – 9 a.m. n for such programs, make sure they are facilitated by degreed teachers as mmer well as tailored to meet the specific sons needs of your child,Any two breakfast entrees whether it be good with early bird or any other offer. concentrating onNot advanced orthe remedial Expires June 7, 2011 ntrast material. It also can be helpful that the tutoring is ills, intertwined throughout the center’s program, so the children readily accept the “summer challenge.” y to

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Penny’s Blooms in the Springtime: “NIP IT IN THE BUD”

Spring has been a long time tradition of cleaning your house.

I’ve also made it a time to change personally. It’s a time to change activities, diet and recreation. Everyone is ready for a change after a long lazy winter. Western Pa. allows everyone to experience all these wonderful changes. Each season is essential to our health, character, and personality. Spring allows us to begin a new healthy way of thinking. We all realize it’s time to spring out of the winter mode. I feel more energetic and motivated to enjoy everything the season has to offer. The simple things like birds chirping, flowers budding and the sunshine out longer throughout the day. Breakfast is the most important meal to start our springtime activities. My life has many projects going on all at once. My busy schedule sometimes takes away the most important things in life. I always keep in mind, that my health comes first. If I’m not healthy, I cannot give 100 percent. Breakfast has many of the most important nutrients and proteins. It keeps my metabolism and energy levels up throughout my busy day. It feels good knowing I’m now starting another wonderful spring season with fresh food for the soul. Remember: if we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant. If we did not sometimes taste adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome. After a long cold, hard winter, nature is awakening, and so are we! Have a Prosperous Spring! God Bless, Penny

Recipes that celebrate spring !

Breakfast Spring Market Frittata 16 eggs, 1 cup whole milk, 1 cup grated cheese, 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup chopped onions, ¼ cup green peppers, 1/4 cup red peppers, 1/4 cup Julian sliced zucchini, 1/4 cup sliced portabella mushrooms. Mix all ingredients together or in greased glass baking dish. Bake at 400 degrees until thoroughly cooked for 35 min. and garnish w/sliced tomatoes Asparagus and Mushroom Frittata 1 tblsp. butter, 3 tblsp. olive oil, 1/2# fresh asparagus trimmed and cut into 1”pieces, 1/2# fresh chopped mushrooms sliced, 6 eggs, 1 tblsp. water, 3 tblsp. Fresh grated parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

ng a cal to blish ner,

Vegetarian omelette made with egg whites Fresh spinach, onions, green peppers, portabella mushrooms, fresh diced tomatoes and feta cheese. Also you can add a cup of oatmeal on the side w/fresh fruit.

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Peters Township

Penny Folino has been “in the kitchen” for over 25 years. Her newest restaurant, Penny’s Diner, is now open in Peters Township. www.eatatpennysdiner.com

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or those of us who live life with our mobile devices clutched firmly in the palms of our hands, there’s now another reason why we can’t While saving lives and preserving property – as well as increasing put them down… namely, the security and safety of our loved ones, homes peace of mind – are the overriding reasons for using these services today, and pets. there are also important cost components to consider. Here are some facts As Americans spend more and more time away from their residences, monitoring their homes, using an increasing number of mobile applications, about the real costs of crime… • 47% of all home invasions include injury to the home’s occupants has become the next best thing to actually being there. For the past few • 205,000 children are abducted each year, many right from years, it’s become a fact that thieves prefer breaking into homes during the their homes daytime, when the occupants are not there. That syndrome places those • Falls in the home account for the majority of accidental deaths of who may still be there during that time – either alone or staying with those over 65 years of age working care givers – such as children, pets and even elderly parents in • An average of 500 people die and 15,000 are hospitalized each year potentially dangerous situations. due to carbon monoxide poisoning While traditional alarm central stations alert the authorities, they can • An estimated 1,800 (including children) die each year from now even open up two-way audio communications with residents present in-home poisonings during the alarm event. Operators can then communicate with residents, • An average of 3,500 Americans lose their lives in home fires and assess threats and update the police department. 50,000 people are injured, including 10,000 pediatric burns But the benefits don’t just end there! In addition to emergency • Medical costs of the average burn victim range from $200k to $2m notifications, mobile applications can deliver real time information, alerts • The average loss from home burglary is $2,800 per event and even video pictures to mobile devices as they occur, using motion• Out of pocket expenses for burglaries can average $5,000 activated recording. Homeowners can conduct video tours of their homes • Costs to repair homes from copper theft average $20,000 any time they want, through the installation of web-enabled video cameras • The average cost to repair homes subject to freeze and water throughout the inside and/or outside of their homes. Parents can now damage is $50,000 acknowledge the return of their children from school each day through a video clip that is routinely delivered to their mobile devices. The clips can identify what time they arrived, if anyone else came into the home with them, and even the fact that they re-armed the home’s security system after entering. Devices placed in sensitive locations of the home such as medicine and liquor cabinets, firearm safes and pool areas allow parents to know if their children are trying to access dangerous areas, in time to avert a potential tragedy. If anyone comes to the door while they’re present in the home, additional video clips can help determine if the visitor is there for legitimate purposes. For those who have pets, the service can reduce the emotional turmoil of caring for their wellbeing while no one is home. Again, video cameras can be accessed at any time to see what’s going on with their pets, and conditions such as fire and carbon monoxide can be detected. Pets simply can’t dial 911, open a door and escape from danger, or even open a window to bark for help. The ASPCA estimates that over 500,000 pets lose their lives each year in home fires; mostly through asphyxiation. Now signals can be delivered right to mobile devices, saving valuable time for the fire department to be dispatched. For those who cringe at the idea of leaving their home for an extended period of time, these mobile security applications can help take the worry out of travel. Sensors installed in the home to detect low temperature, flooding and loss of electricity can be added to standard intrusion, fire detection and carbon monoxide detection to arrive at a full complement of services. If a neighbor or service technician needs to be dispatched to a LOCKED home, homeowners can even remotely unlock a designated entrance door to allow for access. This Industry Insight was written by Bob Bronder. Bob is the General Manager of Vector Security’s Western Pennsylvania market, and has over twenty years experience in the security industry. Vector Security is a leading provider of residential and commercial security technology services. Please call 724.779.8800 for more information, or visit www.vectorsecurity.com

Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 71

a z an

Managing a Sudden

Oil and Gas Tax Considerations for the Landowner

arcellus Shale gas drilling is the buzz in Washington County, with Southpointe serving as a vantage point for the tremendous amount of business activity driven by oil and gas producers, equipment manufacturers, and professional services stemming from oil and gas contracts. In fact, more than 50 oil- and gas-related companies have office locations in Southpointe, including Range Resources, which has begun construction on a large building near Morganza Road. All of the activity from this natural gas boom will likely create a large amount of income for landowners in our area who own mineral rights. Most landowners purchased their property for the surface rights, never dreaming that previously untapped underground resources could make them wealthy. For most people, managing sudden wealth will require a crash course in financial and tax planning. Specifically, while the tax laws pertaining to oil and gas leases and the resultant royalties are complex, understanding the rules may help you save taxes and avoid penalties. In this article we offer

72 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

Peters Township

n o B

a brief overview of some of the general tax considerations. For more detailed information, however, please explore our website (www.hfinancialmanagement.com/section18.cfm) for free publications on gas leasing and related financial planning advice. Oil and gas revenue. Oil and gas revenue is considered to be ordinary income and is subject to federal, state, and local income tax. Cash bonuses or upfront lease bonus payments are considered rent and, as such, are taxed as ordinary income, usually in the year received. The one-time payment may place you in the top income tax bracket for that year (35% in 2011). However, often possible is the deduction of expenses such as attorneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fees, deed/title searches, surveys, some surface damage payments, and property taxes. Also, if the landowner has a working interest in the production of the gas, additional expenses such as intangible drilling costs, development costs (IDC), operational costs, equipment depreciation, and production tax credits might be deducted. Most property owners will only have a royalty interest. Royalty payments are considered ordinary income for the landowner. However, because oil and gas is a natural resource and can be â&#x20AC;&#x153;used upâ&#x20AC;? as it is produced and sold, most landowners will have

the ability to deduct a “depletion” allowance. This is similar to depreciating a rental property or the purchase of capital equipment over time. For natural gas, 15% of the landowner’s gross income from the average daily production up to the total quantity of the gas is considered the depletion allowance. The depletion allowance is then limited to the smaller of either (1) 100% of the landowner’s taxable income from the property (without depletion allowance factored) or (2) 65% of the landowner’s taxable income from all sources (without depletion allowance factored). Selling mineral rights rather than leasing could offer the landowner significant tax advantages since selling can generate long-term capital gains. Long-term capital gains are taxed at 15% in 2011. Incorporation. Landowners who anticipate receiving significant income from gas extraction may consider setting up family limited partnerships. Generally, the income generated via these entities is still subject to personal income tax, but it is possible to spread the taxable income over all of the owners who may individually qualify for a lower income tax bracket. Incorporation may also allow transfer to any number of beneficiaries and may provide the benefit of a reduced taxable estate. Estate and inheritance tax. Another tax consideration to take into account is the federal estate tax and the Pennsylvania inheritance tax. In 2011, $5 million of a landowner’s estate is exempt from federal estate tax ($10 million for husband and wife) while assets >$5 million are taxed at 35%. In addition, the Pennsylvania state inheritance tax is currently 4.5% for direct descendants. Although the federal estate tax rates may change in the future, many landowners

will collect oil and gas revenues and still pass an estate less than the $5 million exclusion. Regardless of the estate size, there are opportunities to reduce the estate and inheritance tax burden if actions are taken prior to death. Despite the still recovering U.S. economy and lingering high national unemployment numbers, Marcellus Shale gas drilling holds the promise to invigorate our county. For the individual it could mean the guarantee of an ideal retirement, educational support for children’s college, or a legacy plan for heirs. While many landowners in the area will experience a windfall, some will take the first step to protecting their newfound wealth by calling a professional. Landowners who anticipate receiving lease bonus payments and royalties are advised to discuss the tax ramifications of their holdings with an accountant, an attorney, or a wealth manager. This Industry Insight was written by Garrett S. Hoge. Garrett S. Hoge, RFC, CFP®, MS of H Financial Management, is a private wealth manager based in Southpointe serving the ever-changing financial needs of his clients. Please contact Garrett at: H Financial Management, 400 Southpointe Blvd., #420, Canonsburg, PA 15317 Phone: 724‐745‐9406, Email: garrett@hfinancial.net Web: www.hfinancialmanagement.com. Securities offered through Triad Advisors, Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services offered through H Financial Management. H Financial Management is not affiliated with Triad Advisors.

Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 73

Why Should I Have My Hearing Tested?

dults can be screened for hearing loss using simple methods and there are effective treatments for many forms of hearing loss. Hearing loss affects as many as 31 million Americans of all ages, yet only 12% of patients are routinely screened for it. At Swift Audiology, we encourage everyone to get their hearing screened annually, establishing a baseline and monitoring changes and needs, throughout the patient’s life. Most hearing loss occurs slowly over time and goes un-noticed until it is causing frustration and emotional turmoil, for ourselves, our family, friends and co-workers. Eventually this can even lead to isolation and depression if the hearing loss is not treated.

“If the eyes are the window to the soul, then surely the Ears are the doorway to the heart! “When someone in the family has a hearing loss, the entire family has a hearing problem.” People with hearing loss are not the only ones who suffer. A number of studies have shown that the partner or family member experiences frustration, stress and anger at having to deal with their loved one’s hearing problems. If you have been reluctant to seek help, then this year, do it for the ones you love.

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Did you know that we hear with our brain and not with our ears? The ears are the pathway, or transducer to get the information to the brain. Missing information in speech, such as high frequency consonant sounds (S – T – TH – B – F, etc…), over time, causes us to misinterpret, misunderstand conversations and slows our cognitive processing. It even impacts our memory. If we don’t hear something well enough to comprehend it, how do we remember it? This can slow us down socially, impact our relationships, our mental alertness and change our lifestyle tremendously. This is a TRUE quality of life issue! The most common type of hearing loss is Sensorineural (Nerve Loss). It is indeed a myth that nothing can be done for NERVE loss. This is a permanent hearing loss within the cochlea and can not be cured medically or surgically. (unless it’s a severe to profound loss and hearing aids will no longer help; then a cochlear implant may be recommended, but this is not common among older adults). Aging, noise exposure, trauma, some medications and treatments for cancer, viruses and hereditary factors, can all contribute to nerve loss. There are very effective hearing aids for nerve loss, utilizing today’s digital technology. (most people wearing hearing aids have nerve loss). These hearing instruments come in every size, style and color with features to meet lifestyle needs and each budget. These are microelectronics and are in a variety of technology levels like all computers and electronics. The price is dependent on the technology, which accounts for the price differences you see advertised. Recent styles have been developed to leave the ear canal more open, without feeling plugged up and allowing a more natural sound quality and clarity. Prove it to yourself; get a hearing test! If you need hearing help, Swift Audiology offers a complimentary “No Risk” hearing screening, performed by one of our professional clinical audiologists. If hearing aids are the appropriate course of treatment, we offer a trial period and also a 45-day “NO RISK” return. For more information Visit www.swiftaudiology.com Or Call 724-942-4700 Peters Twp. Office

& HEARING AID SERVICE

(Limited time - Call Now!)

North Hills Peter’s Twp. Washington 5900 Corporate Dr. Ste. 260 3035 Washington Rd. Moved to 2107 N. Franklin Dr. Pittsburgh Office & Washington Eye Center Bldg. Dr. Feuer/Happel Laser Bldg. Research Park 724-222-9010 724-942-4700 1-800-331-3277

Toll Free: 1-877-459-4413 74 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

Peters Township

INCOM4511

Debra Swift, B.C.-H.I.S. Original Founder/President 24 yr. +

Melissa Carnes AuD., Dr. of Audiology

Leslie Dunst MS.-CCCA Senior Audiologist

Cryotherapy for Skin Lesions

ryotherapy is a common form of treatment used for all types of lower extremity warts and selective skin lesions. Plantar warts are one of the most common lesions seen in the lower extremity. Warts typically are resistant to multiple forms of therapy, with the most common treatments working successfully approximately 60 percent of the time on the first try. Cryotherapy is one of the most successful adjuncts to many over-the-counter wart treatments. The warts are treated first with debridement and drying agents. Cryotherapy is then applied, which accomplishes two things. First, it causes inflammation. This process causes increased activity in the area of the wart. By causing the increase in activity, the wart material can then become apparent to the immune system as foreign and can be removed. Secondarily, this effect will even allow the body to see other warts not treated and remove them as well. If freezing is deep enough, it may cause a blister at the treatment site.

Up to $1200 instant rebate on select Carrier equipment

The wart will then slough off if a blister is formed. Since inflammation is a primary ingredient in removing warts, redness at the site of cryotherapy may occur. Cryotherapy results in high patient satisfaction because the aftercare is minimal and involves minimal patient down time. For more information on cryotherapy, please visit us on the web at www.pffcpc.com. This Industry Insight was written by Karen K. Luther. Karen K. Luther, D.P.M., Director of Pittsburgh Family Foot Care, P.C.,Board certified, American Board of Podiatric Surgery, Board certified, National Board of Podiatry Examiners, Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, Pennsylvania College of Podiatric Medicine. 2001 Waterdam Plaza Drive, Suite 207, McMurray, Tel: 724.941.9440 www.pffcpc.com

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Pittsburgh Family Foot Care, P.C. doctors don’t just work wonders for aching arches, swollen ankles, and hurting heels. They are experts in foot pain prevention! Treatments and techniques for: s Bunions s Digital Custom-made orthotics and shoes s Sports injuries s Traumatic foot and ankle injuries/fractures s On-site X-rays s Skin problems including warts s Hammertoes (crooked toes) s Diabetic and arthritic foot care s Endoscopic procedures with less cost, discomfort, and recovery time s Extracorporeal Shock Wave therapy for heel pain

Evening and lunchtime appointments. Handicapped accessible. Payment plans and most insurance plans accepted.

Pittsburgh Family Foot Care, P.C. Dr. Karen Luther & Associates

2001 Waterdam Plaza Drive, Suite 207 Centralized Scheduling (724) 941-9440 Visit our doctors and many locations: www.pffcpc.com PPA026656 A026656

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Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 75

B U S I N E S S

S P O T L I G H T

Brookside Lumber Company Expertise and Experience for Your Projects from the Foundation to the Roof

here’s a whole world of information out there when it comes to homebuilding and remodeling. Which wood moulding is best suited for staining? Which deck material lasts longest for the price? Which window requires the least maintenance? At Brookside Lumber, employees have an average of more than 10 years of experience with the company and are ready, willing and able to answer all of those questions and any more that you can think of. Bruce Edwards, one of the owners of Brookside, said that experience, expertise and breadth of product selection are what customers come to Brookside for, not to mention value. “I would describe value as a combination of quality of product, the service provided while selecting the product, and getting the appropriate product for the project at the best price,” Edwards said. “We’re very good

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Peters Township

at mouldings. There are a couple of hundred different profiles of mouldings we stock. There are pine mouldings, hardwood, MDF, primed pine, lots of patterns for floors, ceilings, walls, doors and windows. Our people know what they are, how they are used and can help you refine what you’re going to be most satisfied with.” Decks are another popular area for Brookside. From treated lumber to composite decking and railings, the breadth and depth of product could be confusing or bewildering to a customer without an expert to talk to. Brookside’s employees always deliver that same depth of conversation with the customer. They can walk you through the features, benefits and advantages of one product versus another. “How do you navigate that maze of variables? Most people look on the Internet and you’ll get the manufacturer’s take that [its] stuff is the best of all worlds,” Edwards said. “Where do you go to get a neutral perspective or more than one perspective? We have conversations with our customers. We can really drill down into their projects and make sure they leave here with the best products for their projects. Can you go buy a 1”x12” board somewhere? Sure. Can you come here? Absolutely. But what you’ll find here is a broader selection and the people who can give you the appropriate guidance so that you’re getting what you need, not what a brochure says you need.” Edwards said that expertise is even more valuable today with the majority of customers perusing the Internet for ideas on projects and materials. Brookside also prides itself with the ability to help homeowners find the appropriate person or company to tackle their next home remodeling project, regardless of size. Multiply that by the hundreds of quality brands of siding, trim, windows, doors and cabinets, along with building materials, and that wealth of knowledge can be worth its weight in gold to a homeowner. For a tour of many of the products that Brookside Lumber Company stocks, visit the company website at www.brooksidelumber.com. Brookside Lumber Company is located at 500 Logan Road in Bethel Park and can be reached at 412.341.3600. Brookside’s hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Thursday; 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Fridays; and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 77

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Peters Township

DOLLAR BANK OFFERS PRIVATE BANKING AND BUSINESS SERVICES THAT SET IT APART b u s i n e s s

s p o t l i g h t

ast April, Dollar Bank opened its Peters Township location. What makes the location different than most is that it offers private banking services for high networth clients, and small business services in a relaxed, private, professional, business-like setting. Janet Darcangelo, senior vice president of private banking, said the bank's clients require a level of service above and beyond the typical banking experience. “We manage the full banking relationship for our high net-worth individuals,” Darcangelo said. “Those relationships range from simple, conventional mortgages and home equity loans to business and commercial real estate financing, as well as business and personal account management.” Private banking clients are provided with a personal account officer who monitors their accounts and alerts them of better rates or products to achieve their banking goals. Bankers work in tandem with a team of the client’s trusted advisors. This team typically consists of a financial planner, a stockbroker, an accountant, and an attorney. Clients can meet with their account officers at the time and place of their choosing, or come by the new Peters office if they like. “Whether it’s the loan or deposit side, there are unique account privileges for our private banking clients, including higher credit limits on debit and ATM cards and creative and different underwriting than what they could get from a typical retail bank,” Darcangelo said. “If they need or want a traditional mortgage loan, we can offer that to them. We can also provide loans that are secured by assets such as life insurance, investment accounts, commercial and investment real estate, or even specialized financing required for boats and airplanes.” The private banking officers focus on the needs of the customer and are not driven to sell or steer the client to a particular product. What they try to do is to provide banking products and services that complement or enhance strategies developed by the customer’s team of trusted advisors. “Our mission is to make loans and offer deposit services while delivering exceptional service,” she said. “Since we have focused on traditional banking, we’ve developed an expertise in originating and managing complete, interrelated and complex relationships for the high net-worth individuals we serve.”

Janet Darcangelo, Frank Baker and Crystal Mangone of the Peters Township Office.

On the business side, David Weber, vice president of business banking, said that personal level of assistance is also ever-present for business customers. “Our set up is unique. We like to have business banking personnel readily available for customers if they walk into a branch. It’s like their own personal banker, but for small business,” Weber said. “Normally, you don’t get that type of service unless you’re a multimillion-dollar company. We’re trying to provide that for the smaller customer.” Weber said that Peters Township is the perfect location for both services because this area has always had a strong Dollar Bank client base. “We have a lot of customers from Peters who bank with us and chose us despite not having a local branch. They would drive to South Hills Village to go to a branch. Now we’re right here, offering a customized service,” Weber said. “Our business customers work with a business banker who is a specialist and can handle all your needs and get you into the right programs, based upon conversations with you and building a relationship based on knowledge of your business. We cater our approach to the needs of the small business owner who has been affected over the past three years because of the economy and who is anxious to take advantage of the improving economy of today. We’re here, and we’re here to help.” In addition to offering Private Banking and Business Banking expertise, the Dollar Bank Peters Township office is also fully equipped to assist retail banking customers and features a drive-thru with extended hours and two ATMs. Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 79

Shopping So Easy It’s Childs Play

Curves Lifestyle Chiropractic Wine & Spirits Peck Travel Rita’s Ice Tuesday Morning Pat’s Hallmark

Hunan Inn US Post Office UPS The Chalkboard Love Nails Hibachi Japan Giant Eagle

Anytime Fitness Leone Animal Supply Josephine Wig Dry Cleaners GNC TJ Maxx

Donaldson’s Crossroads Shopping Center Route 19 McMurray Donaldsonscrossroads.com

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Peters Township

POOL DESIGNS AND THE OUTDOOR KITCHEN COMPANY b u s i n e s s

s p o t l i g h t

CREATING LUXURY IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD If you’re doing some home remodeling, the average return on your investment for a kitchen is 70 percent. But did you know that if you add an outdoor living space feature, such as a pool or outdoor kitchen, that figure jumps to 130- to 200 percent? Ben Morr, at Pool Designs and The Outdoor Kitchen Company, said that for more than 30 years, he and his family have been designing, installing and maintaining custom swimming pools, and more recently, outdoor kitchens, that can turn a boring backyard into a luxurious wonderland. “We do complete, custom, in-ground pools for our customers,” Morr said. “You only deal with us, not outside contractors. From design to construction, to service and even weekly cleaning, we do it all.” Pool Designs is a family business, started by owner Steve Morr, primarily focused on in-ground swimming pools until customers began clamoring for outdoor kitchens. The company rose to the challenge and started The Outdoor Kitchen Company six years ago to complement its already successful pool business. The transformation of backyards into outdoor living havens continues to stun and amaze residents. “We do a lot with custom benches and steps to offer a place to sit and relax in a pool, and we’re doing a lot with water features such as waterfalls and deck jets,” Morr said. “We offer fire features and complete automation as well. There’s a control for every function of the pool from color light shows to shutting down all

features for the day, or programming certain features to turn on automatically whenever the customer wishes.” This type of control is also a way that pools can be environmentally friendly. While you might not think it sounds like a good thing, Pool Designs can definitely make your pool “green.” Variable speed pumps, two speed pumps, salt chlorination, and heat pumps are just some of the products available designed to make a smaller impact on Mother Earth as well as your pocket book. With The Outdoor Kitchen Company, customers can add outdoor fireplaces and pits, awnings, pergolas and full kitchens to their backyard, making it virtually the most livable “room” in the house. “We offer everything from natural gas to propane to natural lump charcoal and infrared burners, but I would say 90 percent of our kitchens are natural gas for convenience,” Morr said. “There are no empty propane tanks to haul around and refill, and it’s always available on demand.” If you’re thinking that an outdoor kitchen would weather poorly, you’re wrong. All outdoor kitchen appliances are made from surgical-grade stainless steel meant to be left outside year-round. There’s no rusting, and they carry lifetime warranties. Other components, such as counters and surfaces can be constructed from granite or tile. The sides of the islands are typically constructed of stone, stucco or bricks. The limit is the imagination of the customer. Morr said that homeowners typically don’t have to worry about their yards being too small for a little splash of luxury, either. “There’s no acreage issue, we can make any size and any shape of pool,” he said. “Certain smaller yards in communities where the homes are close together may present challenges, but we can make a custom pool work in virtually any situation.” For more information about Pool Designs and The Outdoor Kitchen Company, call 724.941.6882 or go to www.pooldesigns.net or www.theoutdoorkitchencompany.net.

Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 81

W h a t

S e a s o n !

The Peters Twp. Indian varsity ice hockey team recently completed a season beyond expectation. The 2010-2011 Indian icers led by senior Captain Michael Amelio and Assistants Benny Dachille, Michael Glicksman and Evan Mitchell accomplished a season that ended with a division championship and record setting 19 straight wins. Highlights of the season include a 5-3 win over defending state champion Greater Latrobe and a 6-1 victory over division rival Pine-Richland in a festive snow-covered Outdoor Charity series contest at South Park. The fairy tale season ended abruptly with a 5-2 loss at Consol Energy Center against eventual state champion Bishop Canevin in the PIHL Penguins Cup Final. During the year the team also captured the Miner’s Cup trophy in a game versus rival Canon-McMillan; raising well over $3,000 for Operation Troop Appreciation; and during the Outdoor Charity Series game, the team raised over $3,000 for Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Other honors for the team included junior forward and team leading scorer Taylor Cox being honored as WTAE Student-Athlete of the Week, along with PIHL Scholarships given to seniors Michael Glicksman and Benny Dachille. Head Coach Rick Tingle’s team had a season beyond seasons. Congratulations, Indians!

Team photo by Matt Polk / mattpolkphotography.photoreflect.com

Ca m p I n v en t i on i s r e t ur n in g t o V E N E TI A th i s su m me r ! Invent Now is excited to announce that the Camp Invention SPARK program – featuring all new activities – is returning to Peters Township School District this summer. The weeklong program for children entering grades one through six will be held at Bower Hill Elementary July 11 – 15. This exciting, weeklong adventure in creativity immerses children in imaginative play that reinforces and supplements school-year learning in the subjects of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), as well as history and the arts. Children work together to seek innovative solutions to real-world problems and sharpen critical 21st century learning skills such as teamwork and creative problem solving as they rotate through five modules each day that disguise learning as fun. Visit www.campinvention.org or call 800.968.4332 to reserve your child’s spot today! 82 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

Peters Township

Provide Natural Light, Panoramic Views, and Yearlong Enjoyment

Homeowners dream of having more livable space in their existing homes. Sunrooms are a reemerging trend because they provide a year-round, multi-functional area with more natural light, good views, and an abundance of livable space without sacrificing comfort.

The sunroom trend continues to rise in popularity, in part because of the new design amenities available. Skylights, arching windows, sliding doors, and high performance, climate-controlled glass creates a comfortable, light-filled area for entertaining or relaxing.

As homeowners remodel, they are constantly exploring ways to get the most out of their space by designing rooms with a purpose in mind. Sunrooms offer immediate value as practical year-round spaces. They allow more natural light into the house and mix the outdoors with indoor living space.

Sunrooms are no longer just glassed-in porches or decks. They have evolved into elegant four-season rooms providing the beauty of outdoor surroundings even when the weather is too hot, too cold, or too rainy to go outside. Wherever you live, the sunroom trend offers versatility for entertaining family and guests or for relaxing from the daily grind. They are also a good return on investment when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to sell your home. This Industry Insight was written by Jeff Morris, owner and CEO of Case Handyman & Remodeling, located at 2335 Washington Rd. in Canonsburg, PA. Case offers a variety of home repair services, from full-house remodeling to simple handyman jobs. For more information, visit www.caseremodeling.com or call 724.745.9888.

Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 83

RMC RENTAL

E Planning a Party? Tents of all Sizes Tent Lighting Tables & Chairs Dance Floors Staging

Moon Bounce Dunk Tank Cotton Candy & Sno Cone Machines Popcorn Machines

Grills

, 84 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

, Peters Township

stablished in 2001 by Jim and Ray Cappelli, RMC Rental Enterprises specializes in party rentals, and party tents ranging in size from 10-foot by 10-foot to 80-foot by 300-foot clear span structures. Its main events are graduation parties, weddings and corporate functions, so RMC knows its business when it comes to getting that graduation party right. “When people call, they have the perfect party idea in mind, we just make that a reality,” Jim Cappelli said. While RMC has an enormous inventory of tents, tables, chairs, lighting, heating, air conditioning, gas and charcoal grills, and novelty items like inflatable moon bounces for children and dunk tanks, graduation season puts a strain on even his inventory because all of the parties take place within a 3- to 4-week span. However, RMC boasts that they can accommodate last-minute callers in need almost always. RMC’s professionalism and attention to detail were some of the reasons why it was chosen for events like the celebration for then Governor-Elect Tom Corbett, and all of the graduations for W&J College. The company delivers seven days a week, and has an experienced sales team that will help you plan out your event, as well as a trained installation team to make sure your time is spent enjoying your event, not setting it up. RMC will go anywhere in the tri-state area. Typically, most jobs are set up the day before the event, and torn down the day

following the event. Larger tents, like the 300-foot clear span, needs a lead time of several days for construction. Whether you’re the governor, or just throwing a great backyard BBQ, RMC prides itself on the fact that no job is too big or too small for them. RMC also can provide party machines and accessories to make sure your shindig is a hit. These include popcorn, Sno-Kone, cotton candy, hot dog and money machines, as well as dance floors, stages, sound systems with podiums, and bars. Quotes and site evaluations are free at RMC, so don’t hesitate to call if you think your backyard or venue space is too large or too small. RMC Rental Enterprises is located at 600 Jefferson Avenue, Washington, PA 15301. For more information go to www.rmcrentals.com, or call 724.225.7703.

Why Joann Chose Dr. Gobbie For Her Low Back Pain. “I had been suffering with low back pain for about two months and was unable to sleep. My family doctor had given me steroids to relieve the pain, but it returned shortly after the medication ran out. After treating with Dr. Gobbie, I am a believer! The results are wonderful and I have no more pain. When in the office, I never feel rushed or hurried. I’ve already told friends about him.” A healthy you Joann, Peters Township is our only goal. Let Gobbie Chiropractic define a treatment that works for your individual needs…so you can feel good again.

Mention this ad for a FREE consultation… Call to make your appointment today! Office hours include evenings and Saturdays.

Dr. Thomas Gobbie

Offering Physical Rehabilitation Combined with Chiropractic Care 224 East McMurray Road 724-969-4242 Most major insurances accepted, including UPMC and all Blue Cross/Blue Shield.

Auto Accidents • Back, Shoulder & Neck Pain • Carpal Tunnel • Sports Injuries • Sprains and Strains • Knee Pain • Tendonitis Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 85

C a n Yo u I g n o r e a S n o r e ? A

t one point or another, just about everyone has had to deal with the unpleasant sounds of snoring. Maybe the culprit was an open-mouthed uncle sprawled out on the couch after Thanksgiving dinner or (just your luck) an exhausted camper whose chainsaw inhales managed to reach your not-so-secluded camp site through the darkness. Maybe you deal with it every day because it’s your spouse who snores, or maybe it’s you! If you have a snoring problem, you might be dealing with more than unhappy roomies and a bad reputation; you might be losing quality sleep. While most chronic snorers are aware of the adverse effects of sleep loss, many do not realize that they may have a more serious condition called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and that a qualified dentist can treat both conditions. Snoring is the audible vibration that can occur when soft tissues in the mouth and throat partially obstruct one’s airway and disrupt breathing. It can be caused by certain sleep positions, excess soft tissue, the natural relaxation of muscles or other factors that allow the uvula, epiglottis or tongue to fall back into the throat during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea has similar causes, usually accompanied by snoring, but is characterized by stop-and-go breathing due to complete obstruction of the airway. To an observer, the snoring sounds stop for up to several seconds before the sleeper gasps for air and resumes breathing. The cessation of breathing can cause a person to wake up hundreds of

Artwork by Molly Feuer, feuerillustration.com

time each night, but they may not even be aware of the disturbances. How could someone be unaware of being woken up so many times? While the degree of the disturbance is strong enough to interrupt deep sleep, the duration of wakefulness is not always long enough for one to remember it. Many long-time sufferers of OSA are simply accustomed to feeling tired during the day. Perhaps you’ve met one of these types at the movies? They take frequent naps! In any case, such disruption in sleep can have severe health implications. The body doesn’t have a chance to fully recharge at night, oxygen levels in the blood can drop and the brain might not get all the oxygen it needs to retain memory and perform well. OSA is also linked to increased risk of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, heart attack and stroke. The best treatment options for snoring and obstructive sleep apnea vary based on individual needs and the severity of the sleep-disordered breathing. Weight loss, quitting smoking or changes in medications or sleep position can be enough to ease certain cases, while others may need to be treated surgically with soft tissue hardening or removal, managed with CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) or corrected with the use of a dental appliance. CPAP machines work very effectively to force air into the throat and maintain its flow to the lungs, but they are undesirable to many for a variety of reasons. Some users and their spouses feel that CPAP machines make a noise just as disturbing as snoring, many find the masks uncomfortable, and the devices can be cumbersome to clean and too large for convenient travel use. A dental appliance is a light-weight, convenient alternative to surgery and CPAP treatment that opens the airway by shifting the lower jaw and attached soft tissue forward during sleep. The slight repositioning of the lower jaw is temporary, working only when the device (similar to a mouth guard) is being worn. The devices are custom made and adjustable, and patients find them to be comfortable, discreet, easy to clean and convenient for travel use. If you suspect you might have OSA, talk to your physician before seeing your dentist. While a dentist with the proper qualifications can make a custom dental appliance for common snoring any time, treating obstructive sleep apnea requires prior diagnosis by a physician. This may require a sleep study, but once diagnosed, many medical insurance plans offer coverage for dental appliances. If you’re feeling drowsy right now, let’s hope it’s due to nothing more than an article gone on too long. But on a serious note, if you think that you or someone you love is losing sleep from breathing difficulties, don’t ignore it. There is a great deal of information available on the causes and effects of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea, and your health care providers can help you to determine the best course of action for treatment. Everyone is entitled to a good night’s rest.

This Industry Insight was written by Dr. Jay Feuer. Jay Feuer D.D.S., M.A.G.D. is a family dentist practicing at 3035 Washington Road in McMurray, PA. Call the office at 724.941.2200 for more information or visit our website at www.drfeuer.com.

86 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE

Peters Township

unny days and warmer temperatures are headed our way. Spring cleaning is fast approaching and now is the time to add a little fun and fashion to your jewelry wardrobe. The look of the moment is precious beads, and their versatility will complement any style from classic to trendy. Beaded necklaces and bracelets are a unique option in precious stone jewelry. Rubies, emeralds, and sapphires can all be used in beaded strands. Often they may be used in their rough state, lending a casual vibe that can be worn during the day. Even diamonds in their organic state make a sophisticated and stunning statement. Other popular choices in beaded jewelry include turquoise, coral and more recently pyrite. Pyrite which many know as “fool’s gold” has become an affordable and attractive element in beads. Known for its high luster and durability, pyrite is a must-have accessory for the spring and summer season.

Those with a taste for tradition will find looks that suit their style as well. Pearls are the quintessential classic element in jewelry and pair nicely with coral and turquoise. Freshwater pearls also come in a variety of colors ranging from pale pink to lovely lavender. Leave the dreary days of winter behind and embrace your creative side this season. Seek out a beaded necklace or bracelet in your favorite color or even your birthstone. The possibilities are endless as the days of summer!!!!! This Industry Insight was written by Amie Guarino Yadouga. Yadouga is a jewelry stylist for Louis Anthony Jewelers. She has a bachelor’s degree in Fashion Merchandising from West Virginia University and has studied at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. Amie has been involved in the family business since high school. For more information, visit Louis Anthony Jewelers at 1775 North Highland Rd., call 412.854.0310 or visit www.louisanthony.com.

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Peters Township | April/May 2011 | incommunitymagazines.com 87

B USINESS D IRECTORY

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eters Township

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Peters Township

3/17/11

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KID MANIA

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PETERS TOWNSHIP |